Real Madrid have officially informed Liverpool that they will not pursue a move for defender Ibrahima Konaté, bringing an end to weeks of speculation surrounding the French centre-back’s future. According to the latest update from Fabrizio Romano, the Spanish giants had internally discussed the possibility of signing the defender on a free transfer in 2026, but have now decided not to advance with the plan.
The decision comes as Konaté continues to negotiate a new contract with Liverpool, with the Premier League club having already placed a proposal on the table. While talks are active and progressing, the final decision from the player’s side is still pending.
Real Madrid’s brief interest in the defender stemmed from long-term squad planning as they look to evolve their backline for the future. However, with other priorities in the market and a strong core of defenders already available, the club opted against pursuing the 25-year-old.
For Liverpool, the development is a positive sign as they continue to secure key players for the next phase of their squad rebuild under Arne Slot. Konaté, who has established himself as an important figure in their defensive structure, remains a long-term asset the club is keen to tie down.
