A knife in the back of the King – Konate in talks with Liverpool

Real Madrid’s plans to reinforce their defense have suffered a major blow. Ibrahima Konate, long seen as a target for the Spanish giants, appears to have made a clear decision: he’s staying put at Liverpool. That’s according to French journalist Abdellah Boulma, who reports that despite prior suggestions of a verbal agreement for a 2026 move, the Frenchman isn’t heading to Spain any time soon.

Instead, Liverpool and Konate are now engaged in discussions over a possible contract extension. While nothing is signed yet, the player feels settled with the Premier League champions and is reportedly open to prolonging his current deal, which runs through 2026.

Madrid had hoped to snap him up for free next summer. Some at the club, including head coach Xabi Alonso, even weighed bringing him in early to give more tactical options—either a back three or traditional back four. But finances got in the way. As per AS, Liverpool want 50 million, while Madrid are only offering half that amount. The gap has made a deal virtually impossible for now.

In the meantime, FootMercato and Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri report that Liverpool have tabled a much-improved wage proposal to convince the 26-year-old to stay. According to Tavolieri, Konate had been “eyeing it” on Real Madrid behind closed doors, but he’s kept his cards close to his chest in public.

Transfer rivalry like no other: Liverpool vs Real Madrid

Boulma’s August 1 update confirms: "Liverpool and Ibrahima Konate are still in talks about a contract extension. There is no agreement yet, but the player is happy at the club and wants to stay."

Following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s dramatic switch to Madrid, a second major departure from Anfield to the Bernabeu would have made headlines. But for now, it looks like Konate won’t be joining the exodus.