Two men in the Real Madrid stadium with serious expressions
FIRST TEAM

José Félix Díaz reveals the name of Real Madrid's next signing, it couldn't be any cheaper

The journalist reveals that Konaté is the next target for the sports management, and the idea is to replicate the Arnold operation

Real Madrid is already planning its next big move in the market. This time, everything indicates that it will be without spending a single euro on a transfer. According to journalist José Félix Díaz, Ibrahima Konaté is the target set by the board to strengthen the defense in the medium term.

The French center-back from Liverpool's contract ends in 2026. However, if he doesn't extend his deal in the coming months, starting in January he will be able to negotiate freely with any club to join as a free agent in the summer. At Anfield, concern is growing, as the player has refused to renew for now.

Similar situation to Arnold

Real Madrid, which already completed the signing of Alexander-Arnold with a similar formula, wants to repeat the move. In that case, the full-back was also a free agent and only a symbolic amount was paid for his early arrival due to the Club World Cup. With Konaté, the plan would be similar.

Two men pose smiling, holding a white soccer jersey with the name Trent and the number 12 in front of several large Champions League trophies.
Trent's presentation with the number 12 jersey | RealMadridConfidencial

Florentino Pérez's transfer policy is clear: stay ahead of the market and find opportunities that fit both sportingly and financially. The case of the French center-back is a perfect example of this strategy.

He fits the project and wouldn't be the only one

Konaté is a profile that's highly regarded in Valdebebas. He has power, speed, good aerial ability, and experience in big matches with Liverpool and the French national team. At 26 years old, he still has room for improvement and can establish himself as one of the leaders of the white defense in the coming years.

Juni Calafat, head of the international scouting department, is already working behind the scenes. His team is closely following the player's development and is ready to act as soon as the situation allows. The club won't force anything, but if the player becomes a free agent, they'll make a direct offer without going through Liverpool.

Two Liverpool footballers celebrate on Real Madrid’s field while, in the background, a screenshot of a social media profile of one of them appears.
Konaté and Arnold with the like | Real Madrid Confidencial

In addition to Konaté, Madrid is also considering other signings at zero cost. Myles Lewis-Skelly, a young full-back from Arsenal, and Mosquera from Valencia, are on the list of potential signings. The idea is clear: strengthen the team without multi-million investments, as has already been done successfully in the past.

For now, the ball is in Konaté's court. If he keeps his decision not to renew, Real Madrid already has everything ready to take the next step. Another smart signing that could arrive for zero euros.

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