Real Madrid signed Dean Huijsen as a major centre-back reinforcement, and the Spanish youngster is already proving to be worth the money they spent on him. But that is not all, Madrid want more.
After the absurd run by Raul Asencio in the Club World Cup and the uncertainty surrounding the positions and forms of Eder Militao and David Alaba, it is clear to Madrid that another centre-back is a must.
The club had planned to go for Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate next summer, the same way they approached and signed Trent Alexander-Arnold, but Liverpool have detected this scheme and are not willing to fall prey to it again.
They want Konate to either renew or leave this summer, which has suddenly increased the possibility of Los Blancos signing him in a few weeks rather than waiting a whole year.
Yet, no formal talks between the clubs had taken place, until now.
Real Madrid have approached Liverpool to learn Konate’s availability
According to a report from L’Équipe, via MadridXtra on X, Real Madrid have contacted Liverpool to ask if there’s any plausible offer that can convince them to sell the player this summer.
This approach by Florentino Perez and company comes unexpectedly and at an unprecedented time. It had always been said that Madrid were calm about this transfer and were in an advantageous position due to Liverpool’s desperation regarding Konate.
But the club directly approaching the Merseyside side signifies that they are not shying away from the fact that they need Konate badly.
Of course, it may only be at a very preliminary talking stage, one which Liverpool may not even entertain, considering how hostile they have become toward Madrid’s transfer policy.
At this early stage, Liverpool are not expected to quote a price, but given that Konate’s contract expires next summer, the English club cannot afford to be too greedy.
Real Madrid are ready to pay a certain amount, they have conveyed that via the inquiry, but the figure they would be comfortable with is yet to be known.
Despite the first approach, Los Blancos continue to be in a beneficial position, as the player only wants Madrid and will likely come next summer anyway, while Liverpool want him gone this summer.