Liverpool fans are bracing themselves for a decisive moment in the weeks ahead, as Ibrahima Konaté has confirmed that an announcement about his future will be made “very soon.” With his contract edging closer to expiry and heavy pressure from Real Madrid, the French defender’s next move could reshape Liverpool’s long-term defensive plans.
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The 25-year-old centre-back is now entering a crucial stage of his career. His five-year Liverpool deal, signed in 2021, is winding down, and he is only weeks away from being eligible to speak to foreign clubs about a pre-contract. Real Madrid are circling aggressively. Bayern Munich are monitoring quietly. Liverpool, meanwhile, face the possibility of losing one of their most physically dominant defenders for free.
A Five-Year Spell That Shaped Liverpool’s Back Line
Konaté and Van Dijk formed one of the league’s most physically imposing partnerships.
Konaté’s arrival from RB Leipzig in 2021 was seen as one of the smartest pieces of business under Jürgen Klopp. Although he initially rotated with Joel Matip and Joe Gomez, his progression has been steady and impressive. His blend of pace, power, recovery speed, and aerial dominance quickly made him a fan favourite and an essential part of Liverpool’s defensive structure.
Under Klopp, Konaté stepped into both Premier League and Champions League contests with remarkable composure. Under Arne Slot, he maintained his status as a regular starter, becoming one of the pillars in the side that clinched Liverpool’s record-equalling 20th English top-flight title last season. Alongside Virgil van Dijk, the Frenchman provided balance, athleticism and tactical assurance — a partnership many saw as Liverpool’s long-term defensive core.
Yet all of that stability is now in question.
Real Madrid and Bayern Munich Enter the Race
Liverpool have yet to offer a new contract to the defender, a situation that has allowed Real Madrid and Bayern Munich to smell opportunity. Madrid, in particular, see Konaté as a premium defensive signing — and potentially a free one.
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Los Blancos appreciate Konaté’s upside: age, physical profile, Champions League experience and consistency at the top level. With their defensive line transitioning after years of relying on Éder Militão, Rüdiger, and the now-departed Nacho, the timing aligns perfectly.
Bayern Munich, too, are searching for a commanding centre-back after two unsettled seasons at the heart of their defence. But Madrid remain the frontrunners.
From January, Konaté can legally negotiate with foreign clubs — meaning Liverpool have only a short window to act.
Konaté Speaks: “My Decision Will Be Made Very Soon”
Konaté addressing the media in France camp before the Azerbaijan qualifier.
Ahead of France’s World Cup qualifying match against Azerbaijan, Konaté addressed mounting questions regarding his future. His comments were clear, but also concerning for Liverpool supporters:
“My agents continue to discuss with Liverpool. I hope my decision will be made very soon so I can announce it.”
He also dismissed reports that Liverpool had already tabled a new deal:
“I don’t know where that’s coming from.”
This will only intensify the sense of urgency inside Liverpool’s boardroom. As it stands, it appears the club have not yet made a formal offer — or at least not one Konaté recognizes.
Mbappé Makes His Pitch: Real Madrid Calls Every Two Hours?
Kylian Mbappé is reportedly pushing hard to bring Konaté to Real Madrid.
In typically charismatic fashion, Kylian Mbappé has stepped into the transfer story with a humorous but telling detail. Konaté revealed in a Telefoot interview that the Real Madrid superstar has been regularly encouraging him to join Los Blancos:
“Mbappé calls me every two hours to sign for Real Madrid.”
While the comment was half-joking, the underlying message is serious. Mbappé — now the face of Real Madrid — is actively involved in convincing high-level teammates to join him. It continues the trend of players turning into recruiters, much like Jude Bellingham did before the club landed Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free earlier this year.
Madrid are not rushing the situation. They know Liverpool’s contract inaction works in their favour.
Carragher’s Take: Liverpool Will Survive Without Him
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher believes the club can cope even if Konaté departs.
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher recently weighed in on the developing saga, offering a blunt but balanced view. While he admires Konaté, Carragher believes Liverpool won’t collapse if the defender chooses to leave:
“Liverpool won’t fall apart if Konaté leaves. He’s not Virgil van Dijk… If he doesn’t want to sign, Liverpool will be absolutely fine.”
Carragher’s point is simple: Liverpool have shown they can rebuild before, and they will do so again if required.
Still, losing a player of Konaté’s calibre for free would be a painful outcome.
Final Thoughts: Liverpool’s Clock Is Ticking
Konaté’s looming decision comes at a pivotal time for Liverpool’s defensive future. Arne Slot is building a new chapter at Anfield, yet one of his most important defenders may be preparing to exit. If Liverpool hesitate, Real Madrid will not.
A resolution is coming — and soon. Whether Anfield remains Konaté’s home, or whether the Bernabéu becomes his next stage, will shape the upcoming summer transfer window.
