Key Takeaways:
- Real Madrid have officially informed Liverpool that they will no longer seek to sign Ibrahima Konate for next summer
- The Spanish club have reportedly also removed Marc Guehi from their shortlist
- Liverpool now hold a stronger negotiating position as talks over Konate’s contract renewal continue
Real Madrid Abandon Plans for Konate Transfer
Real Madrid are actively searching for a new centre-back ahead of next summer, yet have ruled out a move for Ibrahima Konate. The French international, who was previously considered a front-runner to exchange Liverpool for the Bernabeu, is no longer a target for Los Blancos.
Both Konate and William Saliba were initially at the top of Real Madrid’s wishlist for their defensive line in 2026. While Saliba’s commitment to Arsenal via a fresh long-term contract redirected Madrid’s priorities to Konate, the 27-year-old emerged as the leading candidate, with reports indicating his openness to a free transfer, given his contract expiration next summer.
🚨🇫🇷 Real Madrid have informed Liverpool that they won’t proceed with Ibrahima Konaté deal for 2026.
After having Konaté on shortlist for long time, deal off — reports @TheAthleticFC.
Konaté, still discussing new deal at Liverpool. Proposal on the table, no final decision yet. pic.twitter.com/SOqxTEvcYE
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 28, 2025
Transfer Developments and Changing Priorities
However, David Ornstein of The Athletic has revealed that Real Madrid have now communicated to Liverpool their decision to cease pursuit of Konate. Despite discussions earlier this year, the Spanish giants are now targeting alternative options for the upcoming campaign. Konate, whose recent performances have mirrored a general dip in form within the Liverpool squad this season, no longer fits Madrid’s plans.
This development enhances Liverpool’s leverage in ongoing contract negotiations with the French defender. The Merseyside club, who have already tabled a final contract proposal, now have added bargaining power. Meanwhile, Real Madrid continue to face uncertainty in their quest to bolster their central defence.
Current Defensive Targets and Contract Situations
In recent months, Marc Guehi and Dayot Upamecano had been cited as further candidates for the Madrid back line. However, the Spanish side are reportedly no longer pursuing Guehi, deeming his price tag too high.
Both Konate and Guehi, as well as Upamecano, are set to be free agents next summer, though Bayern Munich are currently working to secure Upamecano’s renewal. The transfer market predicament is further complicated at Madrid, with David Alaba anticipated to depart next summer, and Antonio Rudiger’s future to be decided upon his return from injury in 2026.
