Real Madrid are reportedly working on a deal to sign Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer next summer.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, the French defender is a top target for the La Liga champions.
Madrid have built a strong record of securing top players without paying transfer fees in recent years.
They signed Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain last summer and have also acquired Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba for free.
The Spanish club also brought in Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool this summer, although they had to pay €10 million to secure his services in time for the Club World Cup.
They now plan to repeat that approach by targeting Konate as their next free-agent signing.
He joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021 and has played a key role since then. He was an important part of the Reds’ title-winning squad this season.
Konate’s contract situation remains uncertain, with no clear talks of an extension at Liverpool.
Knate heading into the prime of his career
The 26-year-old is a regular member of the French national team and often features alongside Dayot Upamecano or William Saliba.
Konate is renowned for his exceptional physical strength, speed and clever positioning. He is comfortable playing in a high defensive line and rarely loses control under pressure.
Many people have compared him to Virgil van Dijk, especially for his ability to dominate one-on-one situations and win aerial duels.
Konate is calm, confident, and can deliver accurate long passes from deep positions.
With Madrid always on the lookout for smart business in the transfer market, a free move for Konate makes perfect sense.
