Ibrahima Konaté at the Center of Transfer Tug-of-War as PSG and Real Madrid Circle
As the summer transfer window heats up, Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté has become the subject of intense interest from European powerhouses. While Real Madrid are reportedly keen to bring the Frenchman to the Santiago Bernabéu, Paris Saint-Germain have made a bold late move to disrupt the deal. However, Konaté appears to have made his intentions crystal clear — and PSG may not like the answer.
PSG Attempt to Block Madrid’s Pursuit with Personal Call from Enrique
According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, PSG manager Luis Enrique personally intervened in an effort to sway Konaté away from a potential Real Madrid switch. In what was described as a “sabotage attempt,” Enrique reached out directly to Konaté’s camp, hoping to convince the player to consider a move to Paris instead of the Spanish capital.
Despite PSG’s willingness to go all-in to sign the French international, Enrique’s pitch reportedly backfired. Konaté’s response was said to be direct and dismissive: “Thanks, but I’m only considering Liverpool or Real Madrid, nothing else.”
This firm rejection suggests the Parisian giants are now firmly out of the running — for now.
Konaté Focused on Liverpool, But Madrid Interest Remains Strong
Although Real Madrid continue to monitor the situation closely, Konaté’s current priority appears to be extending his stay at Anfield. Journalist David Lynch shared on the Sports Mole YouTube channel that conversations with sources close to Konaté indicate the defender’s preference is to remain a Liverpool player.
“Real Madrid are clearly interested,” Lynch said, “but I get the feeling his priority is to renew with Liverpool. Talks are ongoing, but things are a bit stuck at the moment.”
With only a year left on his current contract, Konaté has the upper hand. If negotiations stall, he’ll be free to speak to clubs in January about a potential move on a free transfer next summer.
Liverpool Determined to Keep Key Defender Amid Transfer Turmoil
Liverpool have already lost right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer and are not keen to see another defensive pillar leave. Transfer expert Pete O’Rourke believes Liverpool won’t entertain any offers for Konaté unless they’re exceptionally high — likely exceeding £40 million.
“I don’t see a move happening this summer,” O’Rourke told Football Insider. “Liverpool will push to extend his deal rather than cash in. The player holds all the cards right now.”
Former club captain Sami Hyypiä echoed the urgency, urging Liverpool to secure a new deal as soon as possible. Speaking to CGTN Sports Scene, Hyypiä warned that losing Konaté would force Liverpool to sign not one, but potentially two new centre-backs.
What’s Next for Konaté and Liverpool?
With Liverpool actively strengthening their squad — bringing in Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, Hugo Ekitike, and Jeremie Frimpong — the club also faces the challenge of holding on to key assets. Konaté, a core piece of the defensive setup, remains a top retention priority.
Though Real Madrid’s interest is real and PSG have tried to muscle in, Konaté’s loyalty to Liverpool — at least for now — could prove pivotal. The coming weeks may determine whether he signs a new deal or prepares for a major move abroad.
