Overview

• Intermediaries have told Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City that Ibrahima Konaté could be available on a free transfer next summer, according to TBR Football reports echoed by multiple outlets.
• ESPN reporting, carried by the BBC and others, says Real Madrid are monitoring the Liverpool defender but club figures are split on pursuing him.
• Fabrizio Romano says talks that were close late last year became complicated and remain difficult despite Liverpool making fresh attempts in August to extend his deal.
• Konaté is in the final year of his contract and can begin pre‑contract talks with foreign clubs on January 1, 2026 under Bosman rules.
• Liverpool are preparing contingencies by tracking centre-backs such as Marc Guéhi and Barcelona’s Ronald Araújo, with urgency increased by Giovanni Leoni’s long‑term ACL injury, while Bayern interest has also been reported by Christian Falk.