No one has any doubts at Real Madrid: Ibrahima Konaté is the main target to strengthen the center of the defense. With about 2 weeks left before the transfer window closes, the white club has decided to keep a roster spot open in case of need. This is number 25, which could have a new holder in the coming days if the differences with Liverpool are finally solved.
Negotiation in progress
Konaté has a contract until 2026 and has decided not to renew it. Liverpool knows firsthand that if he doesn't leave now, he will end up leaving for free in the coming months. It's a complicated situation at Anfield, which they recently experienced with Trent. The teams are exactly the same and they don't want to make the same mistake there... so now they're willing to give in.
The outlet "DaveOCKOP.com" has revealed the price Liverpool has set to accept his departure. In total, from Anfield they are asking for about €40.5 million (about $43.8 million USD) to accept Ibrahima Konaté's immediate departure. However, Real Madrid is not willing to reach that figure, having put forward, at most, €25 million (about $27.2 million USD).
Florentino Pérez believes he has the situation under control since the contract is about to end. The Frenchman is clear that he wants to play at Real Madrid and he doesn't intend to overpay for his transfer. Right now, the difference between both clubs is €15 million (about $16.3 million USD), so if they want to reach an agreement, they will have to do so soon.
Big plans
Ibrahima Konaté is a direct request from Xabi Alonso, who considers him the ideal partner for Dean Huijsen in the center of the defense. Right-footed and physically stronger, the Frenchman would be the ideal companion for the Spaniard. The idea is for one to start the play from the back, while the other would cover a much more defensive role.
In any case, one thing is clear at Real Madrid: if Konaté doesn't arrive now, he will next summer. This is the intention of both parties, as there is mutual interest in bringing their paths together. In fact, his salary conditions to arrive at Santiago Bernabéu are already known, which would vary depending on whether he comes for free or with a transfer fee. There will be news soon, as negotiations are ongoing.