Liverpool footballer in the foreground with the Real Madrid crest in the background in a stadium full of fans
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Real Madrid's alternative to Konaté, about to sign: they want to make it official now

Real Madrid are closely following another center-back as a plan B

Throughout the summer, Konaté's name has constantly come up as a candidate for Madrid's defense. Beyond Huijsen's signing, they kept considering another center-back for the backline. The Frenchman was the chosen one, given the level he has shown and the fact that his contract ends in 2026.

However, at the white club, they still haven't considered it a done deal and have been looking for possible alternatives. They want to cover their backs in case something happens, but they're running out of candidates. Saliba was the first to move away, now Bayern are pushing hard for Upamecano.

Bayern Munich player on the field with the Real Madrid crest next to him
Upamecano and a Real Madrid crest | Real Madrid Confidencial

Bayern's current center-back's contract ends on June 30 (30 de junio), and so far, they haven't reached an agreement. However, in recent days, they've sped up negotiations again to sign his contract renewal. It seems they've taken important steps to achieve it.

They've made moves in response to Real Madrid's interest, which had raised doubts among the Munich side. They feared Upamecano could follow in Alaba's footsteps and arrive at Bernabéu on a free transfer. This was an option the Frenchman liked, as it would be a new challenge in his career.

Real Madrid keeps taking firm steps with Konaté

Konaté remains Real Madrid's number one target to strengthen the center of the defense. Liverpool haven't managed to reach an agreement, and the Frenchman has rejected the offers they've made to him. He's still waiting for July 1 (1 de julio) to sign with the white team.

Two Liverpool players on the field shake hands during a match.
Konaté in a match with Liverpool | Getty Images

The timelines for the Merengues are still clear to secure Konaté's signing. They're going to keep waiting until January 1 (1 de enero), so he doesn't renew his contract with the Reds. From that point on, they'll make their move, starting to negotiate directly with the player.

They can reach a pre-agreement for his signing once he becomes a free agent, just as they did with Trent. Only if they're unable to do so and these plans fall through will they start thinking about Upamecano. That is, as long as he hasn't renewed with Bayern.

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