Liverpool remains committed to tying Ibrahima Konate down to a new contract, despite his form taking a nosedive this season.
The French center-back's current deal expires in 2026, and in recent months there has been plenty of speculation linking him with a move away from Anfield on a free transfer next summer.
Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain have been the two clubs most heavily linked with Konate, but it emerged last week that Madrid has informed Liverpool that it has no intention of signing the France international.
The reason behind Madrid's decision to withdraw its apparent interest has not been officially stated, but Konate's poor form must surely factor into things.
The French defender had a good 2024-25 campaign, establishing himself as 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 was 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.
"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."
The Daily Mail reports that other clubs remain interested in signing Konate from Liverpool on a free transfer, and that Liverpool is still keen to keep hold of him, irrespective of his poor form.
Konate celebrates during Liverpool's draw with Sunderland
Konate celebrates during Liverpool's draw with Sunderland (Image: 2025 Getty Images)
The report says that Liverpool retains faith in Konate, just as the club is keeping faith in Arne Slot despite the difficulties the Reds' head coach he has faced during his second season in England.
Undoubtedly, though, Konate's hand has been weakened by his poor performances as well Madrid's decision to withdraw its interest in signing the 26-year-old.
It was reported earlier this week that Liverpool is edging closer to an agreement over a new contract for the former RB Leipzig player.
That report by TEAMtalk said that that Liverpool had 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 him, but, as previously mentioned, the club's negotiating position has been strengthened – and Konate's weakened – by Madrid's change of heart.