Ibrahima Konate is being linked with Real Madrid left, right and center. He wants out, Liverpool want him in, he will not accept it, Liverpool will not let him leave, and Real Madrid keep watching. It is a whole lot of noise to consume.
Konate is a brilliant defender and undoubtedly Real Madrid quality. And that is exactly why Liverpool do not want him to leave, just like when Trent Alexander Arnold was lured away.
But the truth is that the Merseyside club are not in the strongest position to negotiate this one.
Konate has only one year left on his contract and has repeatedly rejected renewal offers. They either sell him now or risk losing him for free.
English media gives major Ibrahima Konate boost to Real Madrid
According to English outlet Mirror, the Reds now understand that Konate’s mind is no longer in England and that Real Madrid have more or less secured this signing.
Liverpool have reportedly shifted their attention to Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi as a potential replacement.
Guehi is another top defender in the English setup, and Liverpool have shortlisted him in the event Konate moves to Madrid.
That is a clear sign of Liverpool accepting their fate. If Guehi’s signing materializes, Liverpool will almost certainly push Konate out this very window.
Reports suggest Liverpool already made a starting bid of 35 million for Guehi, which Palace rejected.
Honestly, I do not see this double movement happening before the current window closes. Maybe in the winter if circumstances align, but the time is simply too short to close two such major deals in one day.
There is no doubt Konate would be a massive addition to Madrid’s squad. I had earlier pointed out that another centre-back signing is essential if Madrid are serious about winning trophies this season.
The in-form return of Eder Militao has provided some cushion, but I do not want to rely on something that fragile for a campaign where Madrid plan to go all in.
In my best prediction, Konate will come next time. Winter or summer remains to be seen, but certainly not this one.
Liverpool concede another, and perhaps more at Anfield later this season.
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