Industry insider Lewis Steele claims that Real Madrid did not abandon their pursuit of Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate because of a sudden dip in form.
Key Reason Why Real Madrid Pulled Out of Konate Move
From Antonio Rudiger to Trent Alexander-Arnold, Real Madrid have recently had a lot of success signing free agents. According to some leading outlets, Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate was next on their list.
However, after his disappointing performance in Liverpool’s 4-1 defeat against PSV Eindhoven, reports emerged that Real Madrid abandoned Konate’s pursuit.
Spanish outlet Defensa Central suggested that Konate’s poor run of form was behind Los Blancos’ decision to cool off their interest.
“They (Real Madrid) consider him (Konate) one of the best centre-backs currently available, but in recent months his performance has been below his usual standard,” the report said.
🚨🇫🇷 Real Madrid have informed Liverpool that they won’t proceed with Ibrahima Konaté deal for 2026.
After having Konaté on shortlist for long time, deal off — reports @TheAthleticFC.
Konaté, still discussing new deal at Liverpool. Proposal on the table, no final decision yet. pic.twitter.com/SOqxTEvcYE
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 28, 2025
“Since his signing wasn’t entirely finalised, this has affected the club’s plans, ultimately leading them to rule out the possibility of acquiring him.”
Industry insider Lewis Steele, however, has claimed that Real Madrid did not pull out of the Konate deal due to his recent performances.
According to Steele, Madrid coach Xabi Alonso is happy to continue with Eder Militao and Dean Huijsen as his centre-back duo. They are not desperate for a new centre-back at this time.
However, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s latest long-term injury could complicate matters for Los Blancos.
With Dani Carvajal, Rudiger, and David Alaba already on the treatment table, a defensive reinforcement might be required in January.
Liverpool Handed Boost in Konate Extension Saga
Liverpool are reportedly encouraged by Real Madrid’s decision to drop out of the race for Ibrahima Konate.
Despite the Frenchman’s poor showings this season, the club wants to tie him down to a new long-term deal. They believe he can reclaim his last-season form, which helped Liverpool win the Premier League title.
Konate and Liverpool have been in active negotiations for 12 months now, but a breakthrough has not arrived.
The 26-year-old defender is demanding £200,000 per week to renew his Liverpool contract, which is over 40% more than his current £140,000 per week deal.
🚨🛑 Ibou Konaté on his future: “New deal? This is a conversation with the club and we will see”. pic.twitter.com/DslYxPQUWi
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 28, 2025
Liverpool are unwilling to approve such a sharp increase, and Real Madrid’s Konate decision has handed them a boost.
The club are now in a better position to negotiate after Madrid’s change of heart. Meanwhile, Konate’s stance has weakened due to his recent struggles and decreased market demand.
Konate has played 153 games for the Merseyside club since joining from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2021, scoring six goals. He has won one Premier League title and an FA Cup with the club, among other honours.
