Liverpool’s contract negotiations with Ibrahima Konaté have stalled, while Real Madrid are showing interest in the defender, according to Joyce.

Konaté’s Liverpool Future in Doubt as Contract Talks Stall Amid Madrid Interest

Liverpool are currently locked in a contract stalemate with Ibrahima Konaté, leaving his long-term future at Anfield uncertain.

According to Paul Joyce of The Times, efforts to extend Konaté’s deal — now in its final year — have reached a deadlock. The French centre-back, who joined from RB Leipzig for £36 million in 2021, has become a vital part of Liverpool’s defence alongside Virgil van Dijk.

Despite the club’s desire to retain him, negotiations have stalled, opening the door for Real Madrid to express interest ahead of next summer. Joyce reports that while Liverpool are keen for Konaté to stay, they’re not willing to go to extreme lengths to convince him — especially given recent light-hearted comments the player made about a possible move.

The timing of the impasse is notable, as Liverpool recently signed promising Italian defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma for £26 million. While Leoni is seen as a long-term option, the squad already includes experienced players like Joe Gomez and several emerging academy talents.

Real Madrid’s growing interest in Konaté follows their successful pursuit of Trent Alexander-Arnold and reflects how well the Frenchman’s attributes — pace, strength, and composure — align with La Liga’s demands.

With only a few months remaining on his current deal, Konaté’s situation could develop into a major storyline leading into the 2026 summer window. For now, Liverpool are planning for the future but remain open to a contract extension should Konaté choose to commit.