Ibrahima Konaté is expected to join Real Madrid after reaching an agreement in principle with the Spanish giants, with the Liverpool defender now poised to leave Anfield on a free transfer when his contract expires.
The French international has been unable to agree an extension with Liverpool, and his departure has increasingly looked inevitable in recent weeks.
According to multiple European reports, both in France and Spain, the 25-year-old has now made a clear decision on his next move, with Real Madrid emerging as his preferred destination.
The move would mark a significant switch for Konaté, who has been an important part of Liverpool’s defensive setup in recent seasons.
However, with his current deal running down and no breakthrough in negotiations, he is now set to embark on a new chapter in La Liga.
Reports suggest that Real Madrid’s sporting project, led by club president Florentino Pérez, played a key role in convincing the defender to commit to the Spanish side.
The presence of several French players at the club, including Kylian Mbappé, is also believed to have influenced his decision, offering both familiarity and continuity at international level.
There has also been speculation that the appointment of José Mourinho at Real Madrid is part of the wider project presented to Konaté, with the Portuguese coach reportedly approving the move as part of plans to strengthen the club’s defensive options.
At present, no official announcement has been made by either Liverpool or Real Madrid.
However, sources close to the situation have expressed confidence that the deal is all but completed, with only formalities remaining before confirmation.
One report described the situation in more direct terms, stating: “BREAKING: Real Madrid have verbal agreement in place with Ibrahima Konaté!”
It further added: “Four year deal to be signed, depending on if/when Florentino Pérez is re-elected.”
The same reporting suggests Konaté has turned down interest from other markets in order to prioritise a move to the Spanish capital.
“Konaté put Saudi bids on hold for Real Madrid, as @marcosbenito9 reported,” the update noted, underlining the defender’s preference for European football at the highest level.
The proposed contract is expected to run for four years, with an option for an additional season included in the agreement, depending on club conditions and final approvals.
While the deal has not yet been officially confirmed, all indications suggest Konaté is on the verge of becoming a Real Madrid player in one of the summer’s most significant defensive transfers.
