Real Madrid is already working on planning for the 2026-27 season, and everything indicates that it will have a major signing in the defensive area. According to OKDiario, a media outlet directed by Eduardo Inda, center-back Ibrahima Konaté has committed to wearing white starting in 2026. Barring any surprises, this will be Florentino Pérez's first confirmed addition to strengthen Xabi Alonso's project.
Konaté rejects Liverpool
The French center-back, who has been a key piece in Liverpool's backline, has rejected up to three contract renewal offers from the English club. His decision is firm: he doesn't want to extend his stay at Anfield, because his main goal is to sign for Real Madrid in 2026. He will do so, moreover, following in the footsteps of his former teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold, who also chose Madrid after his contract with the Reds ended.
Imminent release
The agreement will be executed on June 30, 2026, when Ibrahima Konaté's contract with Liverpool ends and he arrives as a free agent at Bernabéu. This way, Florentino Pérez will secure a strategic reinforcement at no transfer cost, although he will have to assume salary conditions in line with the French international's status.
The footballer himself already knows the financial and contractual offer that Real Madrid is willing to put forward. Starting January 1, 2026, he will be able to sign officially, taking advantage of the window FIFA grants to players whose contracts are expiring.
Higher offers, but a clear destination
According to OKDiario, Ibrahima Konaté has received financial offers higher than Real Madrid's. Several Premier League clubs, as well as organizations from Saudi Arabia, have shown interest in signing him. However, the center-back has a non-negotiable priority: to play at Santiago Bernabéu.
The Frenchman believes that Real Madrid is the perfect stage to continue his development and become one of the best center-backs on the planet. In addition, the project led by Xabi Alonso is very appealing to him, and he is convinced that he can fit into his play style.
A major reinforcement
With his arrival, Real Madrid would secure a powerful, fast defender with aerial ability. Ibrahima Konaté is set to form a reference partnership with footballers like Dean Huijsen or Militao, consolidating a top-level defensive line in Spain and Europe.
Florentino has found in this signing a strategic move: proven talent, zero cost, and a defender arriving in full sporting maturity. At 27 in 2026, Konaté will face the most important challenge of his career with the intention of succeeding at Chamartín.