Liverpool is reportedly edging closer to an agreement over a new contract for Ibrahima Konate, amid Real Madrid's decision to shelve its interest in the France international.
TEAMtalk reports that Liverpool has started to see "fresh promise" that an agreement with Konate could be reached after months of slow negotiations. The Reds will not pay over the odds to try and keep Konate, but their negotiating position has been strengthened – and Konate's weakened – by Madrid's change of heart.
The reason behind Madrid's decision to withdraw its apparent interest in Konate is not clear, but the player's terrible form must surely factor into things.
The French defender had a good 2024-25 campaign, establishing himself as Virgil van Dijk's first-choice partner, but he has been among Liverpool's worst performers this term.
Spanish outlet Defensa Central reported last week that Konate's poor form is indeed the reason behind Madrid turning its attention elsewhere.
"They (Real Madrid) consider him (Konate) one of the best centre-backs currently available, but in recent months his performance has been below his usual standard," it said.
Ibrahima Konate
Ibrahima Konate's current deal is due to expire at the end of next June (Image: 2025 Getty Images)
"Since his signing wasn’t entirely finalised, this has affected the club’s plans, ultimately leading them to rule out the possibility of acquiring him."
Guehi heading to Madrid?
Madrid could instead look to sign Marc Guehi as a free agent when his Crystal Palace contract expires at the end of the campaign.
Guehi remains a top target for Liverpool, but the Reds no longer have the free run at the Palace captain that they appeared to have over the summer.
Palace agreed to sell Guehi to Liverpool on deadline day, only to pull the plug on the deal due to Palace manager Oliver Glasner's concerns over a lack of squad depth.
Liverpool is now likely to face plenty of competition to sign Guehi in 2026 because a transfer fee will not be required to sign him.
Caught Offside reports that Atletico Madrid is the latest club to enter the race to sign the England international, with Diego Simeone's back line currently going through a transitional period.
Guehi is viewed as an appealing option on a free transfer, with the player's leadership skills, tactical awareness and composure all viewed as desirable traits by Atleti's manager.
A number of other European giants, like Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Inter Milan are all said to be interested in signing Guehi, who has established himself as one of the Premier League's best center-backs over the last 18 months.