The La Liga giants are determined to bolster their defensive ranks, and Konate has emerged as a prime target alongside Arsenal's William Saliba.

Securing a top-class central defender remains a pressing mission for Real Madrid ahead of the summer transfer window. Manager Carlo Ancelotti boasts a wealth of talent at the back, with the likes of Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, and David Alaba in the squad.

However, persistent injury setbacks over the past two and a half seasons have exposed vulnerabilities. Militao and Alaba, in particular, have faced lengthy spells on the sidelines, forcing midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni to deputise alongside Rudiger, while 22-year-old Raul Asencio has stepped up with 37 appearances this term.

Despite Asencio's commendable efforts, Spanish outlet Fichajes has reported that Real Madrid are poised to splash out big on a new centre-back. While Saliba has long been tipped as their primary target—his Arsenal contract running until 2027, Konate has now entered the frame as "a clear candidate" for the Champions League holders.

The report added that Real Madrid are "closely monitoring" the 25-year-old Frenchman, who has yet to commit his future to Liverpool beyond his current deal, set to expire in 2026.

"Konate fits perfectly into the club's plans," a source close to the Bernabeu said, per Fichajes. "The team needs a generational change in defence, and he's young, reliable, and high on the list of priority reinforcements."

This urgency stems from Rudiger and Alaba both being in their thirties, coupled with the injury woes plaguing the backline. Interestingly, Konate's own injury record since joining Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021 has raised eyebrows, though his potential signing "has been recommended" by France teammate Kylian Mbappe, now a Real Madrid star.

Konate, however, has remained tight-lipped about the speculation. His focus, he has said, lies with Liverpool's pursuit of a trophy treble this season under Arne Slot. The Reds are flying high, sitting atop the Premier League table with a commanding 13-point lead over second-placed Arsenal as of March 08, 2025. Yet Real Madrid have vowed to "keep an eye on his contract situation," sensing an opportunity.

This isn't the first time Real Madrid have turned their attention to Anfield. Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold remains their top target for the summer, with the right-back's contract expiring at season's end, making him a potential free transfer. Alongside Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are also nearing the end of their deals, though no extensions have been confirmed for the trio.

Despite the uncertainty, Slot's side have shown no signs of distraction, dominating the league with a steely resolve.

A recent X update from Liverpool's official account on March 07, praised Konate's latest performance, stating: "Another colossal display from Ibou at the back, rock solid."

Meanwhile, Ancelotti, speaking after Real Madrid's latest match, hinted at future plans without naming names: "We have great players, but we're always looking to strengthen for the long term."

For now, Konate's immediate battle is on Merseyside, but Real Madrid's interest promises a blockbuster tug-of-war when the transfer window swings open. Football fans will be watching closely as the European giants plot their next move.

Report: Real Madrid launch bold move for Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate