Ibrahima Konate has officially joined Real Madrid on a free transfer following the expiry of his contract at Liverpool, signing a four-year deal with the Spanish club.
Konate leaves Liverpool after five years this summer having failed to agree an extension to his contract at Anfield.
The club announced his departure at the end of May, with the Frenchman declaring himself “deeply saddened” at not being able to bid a proper farewell to the fans.
Talks had already taken place over a switch to Real Madrid, however, and a four-year deal was quickly agreed when he became available.
Real Madrid have now formally announced his signing, becoming their third new arrival in an already busy summer following the return of Jose Mourinho as manager.
Marc Cucurella has joined from Chelsea in a deal worth up to £51.8 million, while Bernardo Silva is another to sign on a free transfer after leaving Man City.
Konate’s move to the Bernabeu sees him reunited with Trent Alexander-Arnold, having played alongside each other 93 times as part of Liverpool’s defence.
He is currently with the France squad at the World Cup in the United States, going unused in their opening 3-1 victory over Senegal on Tuesday night.
In a statement on social media after his departure from Liverpool was confirmed, Konate wrote that it was “time for a new challenge”:
“Five years ago, I arrived as a young player with big dreams. Today, I leave with memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.
“Representing this club has been an honour. We’ve shared incredible moments together…highs and lows, trophies, challenges, lifelong friendships, and heartbreaking moments that will stay with us forever, none more painful than losing our brother Diogo.
“Losing my father this year was one of the hardest periods of my life, but even through hardship, my commitment to this club never changed. During the toughest moments, I gave everything I had for this badge.
“To my teammates, coaches, staff and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for helping me grow every single day.
“And to the supporters…thank you for your love, your energy, and your incredible support. Anfield is truly a special place, and playing in front of you was something I never took for granted.
“I am deeply saddened that I didn’t get the chance to say goodbye to all of you at the last game. At that moment, I didn’t know it would be my final time wearing this shirt in front of you.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything. I love you all and will carry Liverpool with me wherever I go.
“This isn’t an easy goodbye, but it’s time for a new challenge and a new chapter.
“See you again soon, Inshallah. YNWA.”