Ibrahima Konate tells Liverpool he could join Real Madrid THIS summer - and Reds could cash in to avoid Trent Alexander-Arnold situation

WHAT HAPPENED?

According to a report from Marca, Konate has already told the Liverpool leadership that he wouldn't mind leaving the club this summer, as long as Real Madrid make an offer for him. The Premier League champions are seriously considering cashing in on the Frenchman — who is into the final year of his contract at Anfield — amid fears that they might lose him for free next summer in a repeat of the Alexander-Arnold situation.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Madrid are intent on shoring up their defence as they transition into a new era under new manager Xabi Alonso. The likes of David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger find themselves on the wrong side of their thirties, with injuries catching up on them. While Madrid have already completed a significant defensive coup in the form of Dean Huijsen, they are not done just yet. Although Los Blancos consider signing Konate as a free agent next year as the ideal scenario, a move for the 26-year-old could materialise this summer, under the condition that they can manage to offload one of the first-team defenders.

DID YOU KNOW?

The report adds that Konate has turned down multiple renewal proposals from the Reds and has made it clear to the club that he hasn't turned down those offers because of money. The French international will continue to remain patient, provided he gets the opportunity to wear the famous Real Madrid shirt. Liverpool, as such, are losing hope of holding on to their star defender beyond 2026.