Real Madrid miss out on preferred centre-back in further Ibrahima Konate blow

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.

Image Credits: Imago Images

Liverpool find themselves embroiled in another high-stakes contract saga with defender Ibrahima Konate, whose deal expires in June 2026 amid intensifying interest from Real Madrid.

Sporting director Richard Hughes reportedly entered negotiations early, yet talks have stalled, leaving Konate free to negotiate a pre-contract with foreign clubs from January 1st.

And it looks like the Spanish giants may accelerate a move for Konate.

That’s because their preferred target in Arsenal’s William Saliba has agreed a new contract to remain at the Emirates.

David Ornstein has reported that, despite interest from Real Madrid, William Saliba has agreed a new five-year deal with the Gunners:

“Arsenal centre-back William Saliba has agreed a new contract with the club,” the transfer journalist reported for the Athletic

“The 24-year-old’s new deal is expected to be signed in the coming days.”

“Saliba had been the subject of interest from Real Madrid, but said in March he was happy at Arsenal and wanted to win trophies with the north London club.”

Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone