Aurélien Tchouaméni breathes a sigh of relief. The possible arrival of Ibrahima Konaté at Real Madrid gives him a break in Liverpool. Until now, Tchouaméni has had to cover defensive positions due to the lack of center backs.
With Konaté out, his days as an improvised center back could be over. This will allow him to focus exclusively on his role in midfield and develop his best version.
Konaté, in Madrid's sights
Ibrahima Konaté is on Real Madrid's radar, the Frenchman finishes his contract in 2026 and Los Blancos are looking to get ahead. Florentino Pérez's intention is to sign him without paying his full market price. Currently, Konaté is valued at about €60 million, if he doesn't renew, Liverpool could sell him this summer for about €40 million.
Madrid plans to repeat the strategy it used with Trent Alexander-Arnold. If Konaté refuses to renew, the Merengue club will try to bring him in before 2026, avoiding losing him for free. Meanwhile, the center back remains a starter at Liverpool and played all 90 minutes in the Community Shield against Crystal Palace.
Madrid's defense still with doubts
Although Éder Militao's return brings security, Real Madrid is still keeping an eye on the center back market. Militao is expected to partner with Dean Huijsen in the back line, but the Brazilian's prolonged injuries are a concern.
Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, and Raúl Asencio complete the squad, although not all of them convince Xabi Alonso. That's why Konaté remains a strategic target. With Konaté's arrival, Tchouaméni would no longer play as a center back.
Liverpool doesn't stop
The English club doesn't depend on a single player, if Konaté leaves, there are already plans to strengthen the defense. Marc Guéhi, from Crystal Palace, could arrive for about €40 million. In addition, the young Giovanni Leoni, 18, is on Liverpool's radar for €35 million.
These moves would allow Liverpool to keep a solid defense alongside Virgil van Dijk. Although losing Konaté would be a blow, the "Reds" don't hesitate to invest. In addition, the club is still negotiating for Alexander Isak, even though Newcastle is asking for nearly €170 million.
An intense summer market
The final stretch of the market promises more surprises. The Premier League giants are active and Liverpool is no exception. Konaté's departure could speed up other signings, but it also opens opportunities for players like Tchouaméni, who will finally be able to focus on his own role.
The Merseyside club shows that it's prepared for any scenario. Meanwhile, Tchouaméni smiles, his future in midfield seems clearer and without the pressure of playing as a center back. The Frenchman's celebration reflects Liverpool's ambition: to renew, strengthen, and remain competitive without depending on just one.