As Real Madrid prepare to face Liverpool in their highly anticipated UEFA Champions League encounter, a fascinating subplot involving Ibrahima Konate has emerged.
According to a recent report from AS, the French defender’s performance in this clash could serve as something far more significant than just another European night, as it could be an audition for a potential move to the Spanish capital.
It is known that Real Madrid are tracking Konate closely as part of their defensive planning for 2026, when they intend to reinforce the backline with a mix of experience and youth.
The 26-year-old Liverpool centre-back fits perfectly into that profile, but alongside him, the club is also eyeing youth team player Joan Martinez, as part of a long-term succession strategy.
Another TAA case?
Interestingly, Real Madrid’s approach mirrors their growing interest in out-of-contract players, the same vision that saw Trent Alexander-Arnold make the move this year.
And while Liverpool have long been aware of Los Blancos’ admiration for Konate, the Merseyside club is now beginning to grow concerned.
Ibrahima Konate, Liverpool player
Konate will be audtioning for Real Madrid. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
The Frenchman’s current contract expires at the end of this season, and so far, all attempts by Liverpool to extend his deal have been unsuccessful.
Unless there is a breakthrough soon, Konate will enter the final six months of his contract in January, allowing him to negotiate with other clubs.
Auditioning for Real Madrid
That makes the upcoming match at Anfield a particularly intriguing one.
For Madrid, it is not only a battle for supremacy in Europe, but also an opportunity to evaluate a player they see as part of their future.
For Konate, every tackle, header, and moment of composure will be under scrutiny because this game might just be the start of something much bigger.