Ibrahima Konate ‘harassment strategy’ continues with latest report – opinion
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Ibrahima Konaté, the 26-year-old French international and Liverpool defender, is reportedly at the center of a concerted “harassment strategy” orchestrated by Spanish media, aimed at unsettling the player and pushing him toward a summer move to Real Madrid[1]. With his contract at Liverpool set to expire in June 2026, Konaté is eligible to negotiate with foreign clubs as early as January 2025, making him a prime target for Real Madrid’s recruitment plans[1].
According to Spanish outlet AS, Real Madrid have been working for months to either secure Konaté on a free transfer next summer or at a “distressed price” by capitalizing on his uncertain contract situation at Liverpool[1]. This approach is not new for Real Madrid, who have previously used similar pressure tactics to sign players on favorable terms[2]. However, unlike his compatriot William Saliba, who is reportedly set to extend with Arsenal until 2030, Konaté’s future remains up in the air, with Liverpool said to be struggling to convince him to sign a new deal despite having offered three contract extensions[1][2].
The latest reports from Spain suggest a widening gap between Konaté and Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, adding fuel to the transfer rumors[1]. This narrative was further amplified after Konaté was forced off with an injury during Liverpool’s recent defeat to Chelsea. Slot’s post-match comments, where he admitted to having considered replacing Konaté for tactical reasons due to the defender losing possession too often, have been highlighted as evidence of potential friction[1]. Spanish media have seized on these remarks to portray a deteriorating relationship, although it is unclear how much these tactical decisions reflect a genuine rift or are merely part of routine managerial critique.
The saga is indicative of the high-stakes nature of modern football transfers, where media narratives and psychological pressure play significant roles in shaping player movements. For Liverpool, the priority remains convincing Konaté to commit his future to the club, while Real Madrid continue to apply maximum pressure in hopes of securing another high-profile signing on advantageous terms[1][2].