Speculation over Ibrahima Konaté’s future has intensified after Spanish media claimed Liverpool manager Arne Slot “lashed out” at the French defender. The 26-year-old is in the final year of his contract, and Real Madrid are closely monitoring his situation, with optimism in Spain that he could move to the Bernabéu next summer.
Reports from AS suggest Liverpool “fear” losing Konaté for free in 2026, even though the club remain hopeful of securing a renewal. Yet the outlet points to recent comments from Slot – interpreted in Spain as criticism – as evidence of distance between coach and player. While English outlets noted Slot offered balance by saying mistakes were shared, AS have framed his words as a potential sign of fracture.
This narrative comes as Real Madrid continue their search for defensive reinforcements, having considered Konaté last summer and maintained him at the top of their list since. Kylian Mbappé has even been reported as personally calling his compatriot to discuss a possible switch to Madrid.
Slot’s comments spark Spanish claims
Konaté picked up an injury during Liverpool’s recent defeat to Chelsea. After the game, Slot explained he had already considered replacing the defender for tactical reasons. Speaking last week, he admitted:
“If you’re losing a game, it doesn’t help if you lose the ball several times very easily. Konaté has been one of them, though not the only one. In the last two games, it’s been obvious and clear that we’ve made some mistakes, but not just Konaté, others too.” — Arne Slot
While the remarks were framed in England as constructive criticism of the team as a whole, Spanish press insist this was a “lash out” at Konaté, fuelling transfer speculation.
Madrid’s pursuit continues
Real Madrid’s interest is long-standing. On 26 September, ESPN Deportes reported Konaté had jumped to the top of their defensive shortlist. With his contract winding down, optimism in Madrid is rising that Liverpool may have no choice but to let him go next summer.
Still, Liverpool’s position is firm: they want to renew. Sources indicate the club will “push until the end” to secure a new deal, even if, as AS put it, this “remains a wish” for now.
Analyst verdict: noise or reality?
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Spanish reports should be treated with caution:
“Arne Slot’s words were taken out of context in Spain. He was pointing to collective mistakes, not isolating Konaté. That said, with his contract expiring, Real Madrid sense an opportunity. Unless Liverpool move quickly, this could drag into a saga – one Madrid would be delighted to exploit.”
Key insights
- Ibrahima Konaté’s Liverpool contract expires in 2026.
- Real Madrid made him a priority target last summer and remain interested.
- Spanish outlet AS claim Arne Slot “lashed out” at the player.
- Liverpool want to renew but fear losing him for free.
- Kylian Mbappé has reportedly called Konaté about a Madrid move.
What’s next?
Liverpool return to action after the break with a crucial run of fixtures, where Slot will hope to have Konaté fit again. Behind the scenes, the board are expected to intensify contract talks to avoid uncertainty dragging into the second half of the season.
For Madrid, the plan is clear: wait, watch, and see if tension at Anfield opens the door to a marquee defensive signing.
👉 Should Liverpool cash in on Konaté next summer – or fight to keep him at Anfield?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 8 Oct 2025 09:39
in his head he's gone. If he wanted to stay he would have signed that contract - there're a lot of French players at Real Madrid and it's a big club.
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