Liverpool are reportedly considering the sale of Ibrahima Konate to Real Madrid, a move aimed at avoiding a repeat of the Trent Alexander-Arnold saga this summer. The Reds, fresh off their Premier League triumph, have already made waves in the transfer market under the guidance of new manager Arne Slot.
This summer, Liverpool has secured three marquee signings: Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, and Milos Kerkez. The club’s ambition doesn’t stop there, as whispers of more arrivals continue to swirl. However, balancing the books remains a priority, with Caoimhin Kelleher and Jarell Quansah fetching a combined £42.5 million in transfer fees.
While the spotlight has been on potential departures like Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz, Konate’s future is now under the microscope. The French defender has reportedly turned down a second contract renewal offer from Liverpool, sparking speculation about a potential move to Real Madrid.
According to Marca, Konate is at a crossroads: “He must decide whether to renew with Liverpool or embrace the challenge Real Madrid presents.” The Spanish giants have long admired the 24-year-old, whose contract at Anfield expires next summer.
“Everything indicates that the Frenchman is willing to make the leap,” Marca adds. “Unlike the Alexander-Arnold situation, Liverpool is prepared to sell rather than risk losing Konate for free or a minimal fee, as was the case with the English full-back.”
Alexander-Arnold’s £8.4 million transfer to Real Madrid earlier this summer was a bittersweet moment for Liverpool fans. Despite his ability to leave on a free, the club negotiated a fee to ensure participation in the Club World Cup.
Former Manchester City and Chelsea winger Shaun Wright-Phillips shared his thoughts on the mixed reactions from Liverpool supporters: “I have mixed feelings about the backlash Trent received. Learning Spanish doesn’t always mean angling for a move. Trent achieved everything with Liverpool, and fans should be happy for him. He gave his all, and sometimes, it’s just time for a new chapter.”
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