Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté (26) is keen to join Real Madrid, according to a report from Foot Mercato. 

The Frenchman’s contract at Liverpool is nearing its end, and from January, he will be able to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with another club. There have been ongoing talks over a contract extension at Liverpool, however, nothing has been signed, and Konaté himself wants a move away from Anfield. 

However, he may not necessarily have to option to join Real Madrid. Foot Mercato understands that Dayot Upamecano has now become the Spanish side’s priority, and the publication adds that a verbal agreement with the Bayern Munich centre-back may have been reached. Like his compatriot, Upamecano’s contract is also up this summer.

Konaté therefore now represents a back-up option for Los Blancos. There remains interest from European champions Paris Saint-Germain, whilst he also has an offer on the table to extend at Liverpool. The upcoming weeks will prove decisive.