Real Madrid have long considered strengthening their defense, and the search for a new center-back continues to be a recurring topic inside the club’s offices. One of the names that has repeatedly appeared as a potential reinforcement is Ibrahima Konaté.

The defender from Liverpool was once viewed as a strong candidate to bolster Madrid’s back line. However, toward the end of 2025, the Spanish club decided to slow down negotiations after a drop in the player’s performances raised concerns among some of the club’s scouts.

Despite that hesitation, the situation has evolved in a way that keeps Konaté firmly on Madrid’s radar. According to reports from Diario AS, he is now the only option that remains realistically open among the center-backs the club had been monitoring.

Several other targets have effectively disappeared from the list. William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, and likely Nico Schlotterbeck are either committed to or close to signing new contracts with their respective clubs. Meanwhile, Marc Guéhi has reportedly chosen to continue his career with Manchester City.

Konaté, on the other hand, has yet to decide on renewing his deal with Liverpool and is still considering his options. That uncertainty is precisely why Real Madrid continue to keep a close eye on the situation.

If the French defender does not extend his contract, Madrid could attempt to secure his signing on a free transfer next season, a scenario that would perfectly fit the club’s recent transfer strategy. For now, the possibility remains open, with Konaté still waiting to determine what his next step will be.

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