Ibrahima Konate is on Real Madrid’s list of centre-back targets but so too is Liverpool target Dean Huijsen with Los Blancos proving to be a problem for the Reds again.
Not only is Trent Alexander-Arnold joing Madrid for free this summer, but the La Liga outfit is also considering both Dean Huijsen and Ibrahima Konate as part of their search for a new centre-back this summer.
Liverpool are also in the market for a central defender with the jury out on Joe Gomez and Jarrel Quansah but while they are heavily interested in Huijsen, Konate’s talks with FSG over a new contract are not going anywhere.
As things stand, Liverpool are at risk of another high profile contract drama which could potentially see the Frenchman become a casualty in the transfer merry-go-round this summer.
Konate is out of contract next summer when his £70,000-per-week deal expires so if he doesn’t sign a new one – and soon – FSG may look to sell him before it comes a massive risk.
Fabrizio Romano paints problematic picture for Liverpool’s centre-back plans
Reporting via Instagram, Fabrizio Romano says Liverpool are in mix to sign Dean Huijsen but the 19-year-old prefers Real Madrid and Madrid may see him as the ideal option – both financially this summer and in terms of his long-term potential.
Romano says: “Real Madrid consider Dean Huijsen for centre back position in huge race against Chelsea – Liverpool and Arsenal also pushing.
“Xabi Alonso wants new centre back soon with Saliba, Konaté and Huijsen all included in Real Madrid’s list.
“Saliba, dream target for present/future but currently considered too expensive as Arsenal offer new deal.
“Konaté is out of contract in June 2026 at Liverpool… negotiations are not advancing, Real are interested.
“Huijsen can be available easily for £50m release clause, he’s Spanish and keen on the move giving his priority to Real Madrid in case they want to advance.
“Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal all want to pay release clause for Huijsen this month, still insisting to make it happen… Real Madrid are expected to decide soon.”
If Liverpool sell Ibrahima Konate – it will be a hugely difficul problem to solve
If Konate leaves this summer, things could get messy.
As things stand, Liverpool already need one right back, one centre-back and one left-back.
If Konate leaves, they need two centre-backs.
Signing four defenders in one summer, however, will reduce the funds available to service Arne Slot’s desires for midfield and attacking signings.
How much sporting director Richard Hughes is able to extract from sales this summer is going to be crucial.
