Real Madrid have reportedly told Liverpool they have “no interest” in signing Ibrahima Konaté, despite widespread speculation linking the France international to the Spanish giants as his contract approaches its expiry. Konaté, whose deal runs out at the end of the season, is eligible to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs from January 1, though it remains unclear whether he will leave Anfield as a free agent.
According to The Athletic, Real Madrid communicated their stance directly to Liverpool, making it clear that they are not pursuing the 26-year-old defender. The publication added: “Despite heavy speculation, the La Liga side have informed their Premier League counterparts unequivocally that they have no interest in recruiting the France international.”
Liverpool have attempted to extend Konaté’s contract since 2023, with the responsibility falling to sporting director Richard Hughes after his appointment in June 2024. However, both the club and Konaté have struggled this season, creating uncertainty around his future. While the defender has been a regular under Arne Slot, he has faced difficulties alongside his teammates during a challenging Premier League campaign.
Konaté came under heavy criticism after a costly error in Liverpool’s 4–1 Champions League defeat to PSV Eindhoven, marking their ninth loss in 12 games. He was substituted after just 55 minutes. The defeat followed a 3–0 home loss to Nottingham Forest, and in Premier League games featuring Konaté this season, Liverpool have conceded 17 goals—an average of one every 58 minutes—intensifying scrutiny on his performances.
Amid the criticism, Konaté addressed fans directly on X, acknowledging the team’s struggles while expressing gratitude for supporter loyalty. He wrote: “We have to take this moment on the chest. Criticism is part of football, and we’ll fight back every time and come through this storm. In these moments, the fans matter most. The ones who stand with us in the good times and the bad, the ones who sing for us even in the difficult moments! Your voice and your support mean everything to us. We know we need to improve and we’ll keep fighting for you. Always.”
Pressure continues to mount on Liverpool head coach Arne Slot, with senior players such as Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah also facing questions over their form. With Real Madrid stepping back from Konaté, the defender’s long-term future at Anfield remains uncertain as the January transfer window approaches.
