According to Sky Sports, the French center-back is open to wearing the white jersey of “Los Blancos” once his current contract with Liverpool expires at the end of the 2025 season.
The 26-year-old’s stance has reportedly shaken Anfield’s internal stability, as contract extension talks between the two parties have made little to no progress.
Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Konate is dissatisfied with Liverpool’s proposed terms, which heavily emphasize performance-based bonuses rather than a high base salary.
The player, now at the peak of his form, is believed to be seeking compensation that reflects his role as a key defensive pillar.
With just one year left on his deal, Liverpool faces a tough choice: improve their offer or risk losing the defender for nothing next summer.
Alternatively, the club could opt to sell Konate in the current transfer window to avoid a repeat of past scenarios where players walked away for free.
If Konate completes the move, he would join a growing list of high-profile players Real Madrid has secured without transfer fees.
The club has previously landed stars like David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, and most recently Kylian Mbappé under similar circumstances.
Real Madrid is also rumored to have purchased Trent Alexander-Arnold early after the Liverpool full-back declined a contract extension, further illustrating the Spanish giant’s aggressive and strategic use of the free agent market.
The Reds now find themselves under pressure to make a decisive move.
Whether they present a more appealing package to retain Konate or choose to cash in this summer, Liverpool must act swiftly.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid remains patient, potentially eyeing yet another cost-effective addition to their world-class roster.
As the saga unfolds, fans of both clubs await official developments — but for now, the signs point to Ibrahima Konate being the next high-profile name to trade Anfield for the Santiago Bernabéu.