Real Madrid have identified a list of three centre-backs as their primary targets for the summer of 2026, but Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate is the priority, the latest report has claimed.
Los Blancos suffered a damaging defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-final of the Club World Cup, losing 4-0 in July and missing out on the chance to become world champions.
Real boss Xabi Alonso will be concerned by the club's defensive frailties, especially as his side have looked vulnerable during counter-attacks.
The Spaniard has predominantly utilised a 3-4-3 system during his career as a manger, and while it remains to be seen if he will use a back four in 2025-26, it would not be surprising if he looked to bring in centre-back reinforcements in the coming seasons.
Fichajes report that Liverpool defender Konate is at the top of a three-man list for next summer, with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi and Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano seen as alternatives.
Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate pictured on March 9, 2025
Why Ibrahima Konate is Alonso and Real Madrid's top target
Konate excelled in the Premier League last term with Liverpool, helping the club win their 20th title and keep the most clean sheets of any team in the division (14).
Reds captain Virgil van Dijk often took responsibility on the ball, but Konate was vital for the champions' defensive structure given he swept behind right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The right-back is now a Real player, but despite fans looking forward to seeing his impressive passing range, there are concerns about his defensive attitude.
If Alonso is to succeed in Spain, he will need to compensate for the weaknesses of his best players, and Konate could help mitigate Alexander-Arnold's frailties out of possession.
Additionally, considering that the Liverpool centre-back only has one year remaining on his contract, Real could sign the Frenchman for free, making his signature an attractive prospect.
Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool during his side's clash against Paris Saint-Germain, on March 11, 2025
Dayot Upamecano and Marc Guehi: Centre-backs assessed
Bayern Munich's Upamecano profiles similarly to Konate from an athletic perspective, but he is arguably better with the ball at his feet, and he could contribute significantly to Real's buildup.
The 26-year-old is prone to making errors in the backline unlike the Liverpool man, and his poor temperament may be damaging in knockout football.
Palace's Guehi has also been touted as an option for Alonso, and of the three centre-backs linked to the Spanish giants, the Englishman could claim to be the most accomplished in possession.
Guehi is not the most aerially dominant defender - his aerial duel win percentage of 54% in 2024-25 was significantly worse than Konate's figure of 71% - and it could be a weakness if he does not play alongside imposing partners in defence.
ID:579015:1false2false3false: from db desktop :LenBod:collect4866: