Ibrahima Konate’s Liverpool future remains uncertain with his contract set to expire next summer.

Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are monitoring the situation closely, and from January, the 26-year-old will be free to negotiate with foreign clubs.

One man who isn’t surprised by the growing attention is Konate’s former youth coach, Eric Hely.

Ibrahima Konate coach makes Real Madrid transfer claim as Liverpool uncertainty continues	Ibrahima Konate's coach backs Liverpool defender to join Real Madrid and take star's place	Ibrahima Konate backed to join Real Madrid as ex-coach makes his feelings clear

Speaking to Marca, Hely made it clear he sees Konate as a player capable of handling the demands of a club like Real Madrid and believes his talent already outshines some of the current options at the Bernabeu.

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“He was very clear about that for a boy his age.

He wanted to succeed and worked tirelessly, even on his own.

“If he did it at Liverpool, why not at Real Madrid?

He praised Konate’s versatility in both three-man and four-man defensive systems, as well as his leadership and professionalism on and off the pitch.

As Liverpool weigh up whether to extend his deal or risk losing him for free, Real Madrid may be preparing to make their move, with the blessing of someone who knows Konate best from the beginning.

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