Real Madrid hasn't thrown in the towel yet and is ready to make a final move in the market. Xabi Alonso is certain that it's necessary to find a reliable partner for Huijsen in the center of defense, and his target is none other than Ibrahima Konaté. The Frenchman has been linked all summer, although Liverpool has always been opposed to his departure.
With a contract only until 2026, at Anfield they're afraid that what happened with Trent could happen again and he could leave the Reds for free, without leaving a single euro in the club's coffers. Konaté is clear that he wants to play for Real Madrid and, in light of this, Liverpool is finalizing the signing of two center-backs to keep its back covered.
Double signing at Anfield
Although Liverpool is willing to renew Konaté's contract, it seems the Frenchman is only thinking about Real Madrid. That's why, between now and the end of the market, it has two signings well advanced for the center of defense.
One is the Italian Giovanni Leoni, whose deal is done and will sign in the next few hours. Meanwhile, the big surprise the English are preparing is the signing of Marc Guéhi, an England international and Community Shield champion. In his case, his contract also ends in 2026 and Crystal Palace doesn't want him to leave for free, having opened the door for its captain.
Open roster spot at Real Madrid
Florentino has been aware at all times of the status of his possible departure from Liverpool, so he has a plan in motion. This has become clear with the latest information regarding the arrival of Franco Mastantuono. Instead of having a first-team roster spot, the Argentine will have a reserve team number, having chosen number 30.
This means there is an open roster spot at Madrid, which could be allocated to Konaté if his signing is completed. If he ends up arriving at Santiago Bernabéu, the French defender will wear number 25 during the upcoming season.
There's one thing very clear at Real Madrid: they're not going to lose their heads over Ibrahima Konaté. His contract ends in 2026, he wants to go to Bernabéu, and he could do so for free. The maximum price Florentino has set is about €25-30 million (about €25-30 million), according to "Madrid-Barcelona". Not a euro more...