Real Madrid seems to be pursuing a rather unconventional strategy right now, one that could ultimately benefit Liverpool.
Real Madrid has a long history of affecting Liverpool’s transfer strategies. Whether they are competing for the same players—often managing to persuade those targets to opt for Madrid—or attempting to poach key stars from Anfield, their influence is undeniable.
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Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure to Madrid last summer hit Liverpool hard, especially as he repeatedly turned down contract renewal offers. Now, Real Madrid is reportedly pursuing Ibrahima Konate in a similar manner.
The Reds have been engaged in discussions with Konate for nearly a year now. However, as we approach January 1st—the deadline for Liverpool’s exclusive negotiating rights—other clubs, including Real Madrid, will be free to approach him with their offers.
With the clock ticking, Liverpool must address this issue and secure the long-term future of their defense. Interestingly, Real Madrid’s activities might play a pivotal role in that process.
The Centre-Back Pursuit
Liverpool and Real Madrid aren’t the only clubs on the hunt for top-tier centre-backs. Bayern Munich is also in the mix, especially with Dayot Upamecano’s contract expiring this summer.
He’s been linked with both Liverpool and Real Madrid, but Bayern is keen to secure his renewal.
According to Sport, Real Madrid has set their sights on signing Konate, Upamecano, and Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi. All three have made their way onto Madrid’s wishlist, which could inadvertently benefit Liverpool.
All three players are looking for significant roles, but Madrid may not grant them that opportunity. This scenario boosts Liverpool’s bargaining position, as they can promise a more prominent role than Real Madrid can offer.
At least one or two of these players may not receive the contracts they desire, and Real Madrid’s attempts to sign all three keep the competition alive. This suggests that Liverpool either keeps hold of Konate or secures another elite defender, as they are actively pursuing this.
If the transfer market were less competitive, Konate might have ended up at Real Madrid, leaving Liverpool in a bind. Upamecano might be inclined to stay with Bayern, while Guehi could become a more realistic target, significantly enhancing his leverage.
Instead, the market remains wide open, providing Liverpool an opportunity to convince a standout player to join them. It appears that Real Madrid’s maneuvering is keeping this situation alive and favorable for the Reds.
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