Real Madrid is gearing up for the upcoming summer transfer window with plans to strengthen several areas of Alvaro Arbeloa’s squad, particularly the centre-back position. With David Alaba set to depart when his contract ends in June and the potential exit of Antonio Rudiger, the club recognizes the need for at least one new centre-back.
Recent discussions have focused on Real Madrid’s interest in Nico Schlotterbeck, who looks poised to leave Borussia Dortmund this summer. He is certainly on the radar; however, Ibrahim Konate is also being considered.
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Initially, Real Madrid had dismissed the idea of signing Konate earlier in the season, but he is back in consideration. According to MD, progress is being made toward potentially bringing the French international to the Bernabeu, especially since he has yet to agree to a new contract with Liverpool.
Konate’s current contract expires at the end of the season, and he has not yet made a decision regarding his future. While the option to remain at Liverpool is still open, it seems increasingly unlikely as time goes on, which could benefit Real Madrid.
Konate could be a key upgrade over Alaba
When it comes to filling Alaba’s shoes, there’s little doubt that Konate would represent a significant upgrade. While his season with Liverpool hasn’t been stellar, when in form, he was regarded as one of the top defenders in the Premier League. Real Madrid will certainly be hopeful that he can regain that form if he joins the club this summer.
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At this point, considerable uncertainty surrounds Konate’s situation, yet this actually plays into Real Madrid’s favor. Acquiring him as a free agent would be a smart move, allowing the club to allocate more funds towards addressing other areas of the first team that require attention during the transfer window.