The Spanish giants, under new manager Xabi Alonso, are eager to bolster their defence following a disappointing 2024/25 campaign, and Konate has emerged as their top target.

Liverpool have already felt the sting of losing a key defender this summer, with Trent Alexander-Arnold departing for Real Madrid after running down his contract. The Reds secured a modest 8.4 million pounds fee for Alexander-Arnold, allowing his early release to compete in the Club World Cup. Now, with Konate's contract entering its final year, Liverpool face the prospect of another defensive departure.

Spanish outlet Fichajes reported that Real Madrid have reached a "comprehensive agreement" with the 26-year-old French international. The La Liga side are prepared to meet Liverpool's 50 million euros valuation to secure Konate's services in the coming days.

Alonso, who replaced Carlo Ancelotti after Real Madrid's trophyless season, identified Konate as the ideal candidate to strengthen their backline. The club's 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-finals exposed defensive frailties, prompting Alonso to demand a "reliable defender" capable of competing at the elite level. Konate, known for his physicality and composure, fits the bill.

Konate has made his intentions clear, reportedly informing Real Madrid he wants to join them and rejecting advances from other clubs, including Atletico Madrid.

The defender's refusal to sign a new contract has forced Liverpool's hand. Having turned down two renewal offers, Konate's stance has left the Reds with little choice but to consider a sale to avoid losing him for free in 2026, as they did with Alexander-Arnold.

James Pearce of The Athletic praised Konate's resurgence under Liverpool's manager Arne Slot last season, noting on the Walk On podcast in May 2025, "He has been back to his brilliant best. The freshness, Arne Slot's tactical acumen, and man-management have all helped to get him back to the level we knew he could reach.

"His contract needs to be addressed because it would be very difficult and very expensive to find someone as commanding and dominant in that back line as Konate has been for Liverpool this season."

Konate played a pivotal role in Liverpool's Premier League title triumph in 2024/25, forming a formidable partnership with Virgil van Dijk. However, with only one year left on his deal and negotiations stalling, his future at Anfield appears uncertain.

Liverpool have already moved to reinforce their squad, signing Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong to revamp their defence. Yet, losing Konate would leave Slot with limited options at centre-back, especially after selling Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen. The Reds are now linked with Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi as a potential replacement.

Real Madrid's strategy of targeting players in the final year of their contracts, as seen with Alexander-Arnold and previously Antonio Rudiger, continues to pay dividends.

Alonso's vision for a rebuilt squad is taking shape, but for Liverpool, the potential loss of Konate underscores the challenges of maintaining their defensive stability as they aim to defend their Premier League crown.

Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker delighted by season start