Real Madrid

Real Madrid move closer as Ibrahima Konaté stalls Liverpool contract talks

Liverpool’s French defender has yet to renew his deal, giving Real Madrid encouragement ahead of a potential summer move.

Andrés Onrubia Roddy Cons

Update: Mar 31st, 2026 09:16 EDT

Ibrahima Konaté has yet to make a decision on his future, with the French defender aiming to resolve his situation before the start of the World Cup.

The Liverpool center back has still not renewed his contract, which expires in June. That uncertainty has opened the door for several top European clubs to explore his situation, including Real Madrid, who have long tracked the French international as a potential defensive reinforcement.

Real Madrid interest remains in play

Sources close to the player indicate nothing has been finalized with the Spanish giants, but Konaté is reportedly intrigued by the idea of a move to Madrid. He is prepared to wait for the right offer to arrive.

For now, he has turned down Liverpool’s recent attempts to reopen contract talks, and optimism around Anfield has faded in recent months.

Liverpool still pushing for Konaté renewal

Liverpool have made clear they want him to extend his deal, but the defender has not signed and continues to weigh his options. Negotiations remain open between the club and his representatives, although recent discussions have not produced progress.

Ibrahima Konate on Liverpool struggles:

“We can say many things because we were champions last season. People are going to talk about, okay, we bring in new players. Many things happened for us this season. But what people as well have to understand, and this is my point, like… pic.twitter.com/QPxpLU4NzQ
— Anfield Sector (@AnfieldSector) March 31, 2026

Despite Konaté’s inconsistent season, influenced in part by Liverpool’s uneven form, the club still rates him highly. He has made 41 appearances across all competitions and remains a key figure in Arne Slot’s plans.

The Dutch coach continues to trust the defender as Liverpool enter a crucial phase of the season, with their Champions League tie against Paris Saint-Germain seen as a major test that could help reshape perceptions of his current level.

World Cup pressure adds urgency

Konaté is also focused on the upcoming World Cup, where he is expected to start alongside William Saliba in France’s defense. France are counting on him to help anchor a back line targeting a third world title in the United States.

However, going into the tournament without a signed contract carries significant risk. A serious injury could complicate or even derail a potential transfer, meaning his renewal or exit decision is expected to become a priority from April onward.

Konaté’s form concerns and future speculation

Some voices in France suggest his dip in form may be linked to uncertainty over his Liverpool future, as the club also begins to explore possible replacements in the transfer market.

For now, Konaté remains at a crossroads, with elite clubs watching closely as one of Europe’s most physically dominant and experienced young defenders weighs a defining career decision.