9 hours ago 2

Real Madrid receive major boost in pursuit of Liverpool star following clear transfer stance

Real Madrid showed great intent in the summer transfer window to strengthen their defense after last season's struggles.

Los Blancos desperately needed fresh players in defensive positions, and they addressed it with some exceptional signings including Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alvaro Carreras.

With David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger moving past their prime, Real Madrid could be in the market for another centre-back next summer.

The Spanish giants are already keeping tabs on a few defenders, who are at the end of their current contracts.

While the list include several names, Liverpool star Ibrahima Konate continues to be the top target for Los Blancos.

The Frenchman, who played a crucial role in helping Arne Slot win the Premier League, has only a few months left in his contract.

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There were reports suggesting new contract talks between Liverpool and Konate but as per Marca, the 26-year-old has rejected the third contract offer made by the reigning Premier League champions.

With Real Madrid's interest in him an open secret, the France international probably wants to move on from Anfield, especially after winning the Premier League crown last season.

What are the other options available for Real Madrid?

While Konate continues to be at the top of their priority list next summer as they believe he could be the ideal replacement for Rudiger in the backline to support someone like Huijsen and Eder Militao.

Los Blancos have also shown interested in Arsenal's William Saliba, but his contract will run out in 2027 which puts him slightly behind Konate.

Apart from these two players they are also keeping close tabs around Bayern Munich's Dayot Upamecano, who has been pretty good for the German outfit in the last couple of years.

Upamecano has less than a year left on his current contract, and he is reportedly in talks with Bayern Munich hierarchy over a new deal. The renewal is taking time due to differences between the two parties over his wages.

Lastly, Real Madrid could also consider a move for Liverpool target Marc Guehi, who almost completed the switch to Anfield from Crystal Palace on deadline day.

However, Palace boss Oliver Glasner blocked the move as they didn't have any replacement for the England international, who will be a free agent next summer.

Despite the failed move this time, Liverpool will surely be back for Guehi in 2026 and considering his consistency, decision making and leadership could make him a great fit at Real Madrid as well.