Real Madrid Real Madrid's response to the price Liverpool has set for Konaté this summer
At Anfield, they are asking for 50 million, while the white club states that they are not going to pay that amount for a player in his final contract year
Real Madrid remains alert to the center-back market. One of the names that generates the most interest is Ibrahima Konaté, the French defender from Liverpool.
Liverpool has made it clear that they won't accept offers for less than €50 million (€50 million). The English club seeks to protect its squad and avoid repeating cases of players leaving on free transfers.
Madrid's position
From Valdebebas, according to Defensa Central, they consider paying that amount to be excessive. Their proposal, if negotiations take place, would be €30 million plus €5 million in add-ons (€30 million plus €5 million).
Madrid doesn't want to take unnecessary financial risks, especially after a summer in which it has already invested nearly €178 million (€178 million) in new signings. The strategy is clear: spend intelligently and only on deals that provide immediate and future value.
In the short term, Xabi Alonso has five center-backs in the first team. However, there is uncertainty with some players. Alaba's recovery after his injury and Rüdiger's continuity are unknowns that shape the planning.
In addition, Konaté's contract expires in June 2026. That adds pressure to reach an agreement that is economically reasonable. In Liverpool, they recall what happened with Trent Alexander-Arnold: a player who almost left on a free transfer and whose final cost was far below what was desired, since Madrid paid to release him early for the Club World Cup.
Uncertain future
Madrid doesn't rule out closely monitoring Konaté's situation. With 17 days left in the transfer window, decisions could be rushed if needs arise in the squad. A transfer could be finalized before the season progresses, depending on the current center-backs' performance in La Liga.
From Anfield, they keep their stance: they won't accept less than €50 million (€50 million). But recent experience reminds them that transfer markets are unpredictable and that a player with a contract about to expire can change the outlook.
Ultimately, the negotiation between Madrid and Liverpool for Konaté remains open, although there are clear differences. The Spanish club seeks security and financial prudence, while the Reds want to maximize their investment.
The coming days will determine whether the French defender becomes a reinforcement for Madrid or remains in the Premier League for a fee that the Spanish club considers too high.
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