When Real Madrid move in the market, it rarely goes unnoticed.
The Spanish giants shocked the Premier League earlier this year when they convinced Trent Alexander-Arnold to walk away from Liverpool and start a fresh chapter at the Bernabeu.
The full-back left Anfield after agreeing to cut short his contract, allowing Los Blancos to include him in their Club World Cup squad.
That deal brought Liverpool just £10 million in compensation, far less than they would have hoped for one of Europe’s most coveted players.
It left many inside the club determined not to face the same frustration again. However, the history could repeat itself once again at Anfield.
Xabi Alonso has already set his sights on rebuilding his defence. David Alaba is due to leave when his contract runs down in 2026.
Antonio Rudiger could also walk away for free unless he pens a new deal.
Even with Dean Huijsen signed for £50 million in the summer, Madrid are planning at least one major addition at centre-back.
According to the Daily Mail, Ibrahima Konate’s name has climbed to the very top of that shortlist.
Club officials believe they are close to a verbal agreement, though the final decision has not yet been made.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are pushing hard to renew terms and end the growing whispers. The French defender has become a cornerstone of Liverpool’s backline.
But Madrid are increasingly confident they can bring him to Spain when his contract expires in the summer of 2026.
If that happens, Konate would likely partner Huijsen at the heart of defence, with Eder Militao providing further competition.
For Liverpool, it could be a repeat of the Alexander-Arnold saga. And, it will be a costly reminder of how quickly Real Madrid can change the course of a season.
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