Real Madrid CF are reportedly closing in on a free transfer agreement for French defender Ibrahima Konaté, who has left Liverpool F.C. after failing to renew his contract due to unresolved wage negotiations.
The 27-year-old centre-back, who made 183 appearances for Liverpool since joining in 2021, is said to have reached a verbal four-year agreement with the Spanish giants, according to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano. The move, however, remains dependent on the outcome of the club’s upcoming presidential election on June 7, where incumbent Florentino Pérez is widely expected to secure another term.
Contract breakdown at Liverpool opened the door
Konaté’s departure from Liverpool comes after months of stalled negotiations over a new deal. Despite his consistent performances and role in Liverpool’s defensive structure, both sides reportedly failed to align on wage expectations.
His exit marks a significant defensive loss for the Premier League club, which will now be forced to reassess its centre-back depth heading into the new season.
Sources close to the situation suggest Liverpool were unwilling to meet the player’s revised salary demands, leading to his decision to explore opportunities abroad.
Mbappé influence and Mourinho approval
The potential transfer has also been influenced by high-profile figures within the football ecosystem. France international Kylian Mbappé is said to have personally recommended Konaté to Madrid officials, highlighting his experience at the highest level of European competition.
Meanwhile, incoming manager José Mourinho is believed to have approved the signing, viewing Konaté as valuable defensive depth behind established starters Antonio Rüdiger and Éder Militão.
While Madrid already boast one of Europe’s strongest defensive units, club insiders suggest Mourinho is keen to strengthen squad rotation options ahead of a demanding season across multiple competitions.
Defensive rebuild alongside full-back negotiations
In addition to Konaté’s possible arrival, Madrid are also exploring reinforcements at right-back. The club is reportedly in discussions to activate Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries’ €20–25 million release clause as a potential successor to veteran Dani Carvajal.
The dual defensive strategy reflects Madrid’s longer-term planning as they prepare for squad transition and increased competition in both domestic and European tournaments.
Election timing adds uncertainty
Despite strong reports of a completed verbal agreement, the transfer is not yet finalized. The outcome of Florentino Pérez’s expected re-election on June 7 remains a key factor in moving the deal forward.
While Pérez is widely considered the favourite to continue as president, the club traditionally pauses major structural decisions until leadership continuity is confirmed.
What happens next
If confirmed, Konaté’s arrival on a free transfer would be seen as a significant coup for Real Madrid, strengthening an already elite defensive line without a transfer fee.
For Liverpool, the focus will shift to replacing a key defensive presence ahead of the new season, while Madrid continue shaping a squad designed for sustained European dominance.
All eyes now turn to the upcoming presidential vote, which will determine whether this high-profile transfer moves from verbal agreement to official completion.