Transfer rivalry like no other: Liverpool vs Real Madrid

A new transfer rivalry - some would even say war - might be upon us, as the situation between Liverpool and Real Madrid is getting pretty tense.

Everything started with Trent Alexander-Arnold. The Reds' child refused to extend his deal with his boyhood club, as the Spanish side was his only wish. In the end, Liverpool managed to "squeeze" at least some money from Madrid, which had to pay €10 million for TAA's transfer.

Still, the Reds lost a vital defender. Now, the situation around Ibrahima Konate irresistibly reminds everyone of Trent's case.

Liverpool in fear: Key player could follow in Trent's footsteps

The Frenchman stalls contract extension with the Anfield crew, hinting at an imminent departure, and since Los Blancos are the only interested party, it's clear where Konate would like to end up.

Even though the 26-year-old's deal expires next June, the Spaniards are willing to talk to Liverpool and bring the player already in the current transfer window for a reasonable price. However, if the Premier League side refuses, Madrid will wait until June 2026 and bring Konate for free.

Yet, the centre-back isn't the only stumbling block between Anfield and Santiago Bernabeu. There's also Rodrygo.

If Liverpool indeed sell Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich, they'd like the Brazilian to replace him and are ready to splurge €100 million for his arrival.

Still, if the Reds continue holding back on Konate's eventual transfer, Madrid could get their vengeance by putting up resistance to Rodrygo's move to Anfield and even demanding a much higher price, although Xabi Alonso clearly favours other offensive players like Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe, and Endrick.

Hence, an exciting finish of the June Transfer Window is ahead, that's for sure.