Real Madrid Weighs Free Transfer for Liverpool's Konaté After Saliba Contract Renewal

Real Madrid is actively monitoring Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté's contract situation, aiming to sign him as a free agent next summer amid internal debate about the move. The club had prioritized Arsenal's William Saliba as a defensive target, but his recent five-year contract extension at Arsenal has prompted Madrid to shift focus back to Konaté and RB Leipzig's Castello Lukeba. Madrid faces potential departures of key defenders Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba next summer, both of whom could leave on free transfers, adding urgency to their search for long-term defensive reinforcements. While Konaté's Premier League experience and ball-playing abilities make him an attractive prospect, some within Madrid question whether he aligns with the club's long-term vision. Liverpool and Konaté remain at an impasse over a contract renewal, with salary demands and performance incentives causing a standoff that opens the door for Madrid's pursuit. Madrid's strategy continues to focus on recruiting top talent on free transfers, following recent signings like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Kylian Mbappé.