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Real Madrid have reportedly begun laying the groundwork to sign Ibrahima Konate with the Spanish side making initial contact over a free transfer once his Liverpool contract ends next summer.
The French defender has entered the final year of his deal and has resisted repeated offers from Liverpool to extend.
According to the Marca, Konate’s refusal has forced Liverpool to view his departure as unavoidable.
The club faced a similar scenario with Trent Alexander-Arnold last season when they eventually conceded to his wish to leave on a free transfer and the there are fears in the Reds’ hierarchy another key player could walk away without generating a transfer fee.
Reportedly, Real Madrid are monitoring the situation closely and could move earlier if the opportunity arises and a cut-price January deal of around €15m has been discussed.
But Liverpool are unwilling to sanction a midseason exit without a ready-made replacement.
Arne Slot’s side reportedly tried to sign Marc Guehi on the Summer deadline day with him even completing medical in London after an accord was reached between both clubs with the Reds also agreeing to a 10% sell on clause.
Palace had initially held out for £40m and looked set to sanction the deal but their plans were disrupted when Brighton’s Julio Igor who was expected to arrive on loan was approached by West Ham United.
Konate has been a regular under Arne Slot and his partnership at international level with Dayot Upamecano also makes him a valuable long-term target for Madrid, who continue to focus on securing top-level talent approaching free agency.
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