Real Madrid reached a verbal agreement with French center-back Ibrahima Konaté on Tuesday. The 27-year-old defender agreed to move from Liverpool to the Spanish club. Reports indicated the transfer hinged on Florentino Pérez winning the upcoming club presidential elections.
Ibrahima Konaté failed to agree on a new contract with Liverpool. The defender made 150 appearances for the Premier League side during his time at Anfield. Spanish media reported that Konaté chose Real Madrid as his preferred destination. Florentino Pérez, the leading candidate for Real Madrid president, secured a personal agreement with the player.
Journalist Alberto Pereiro from Onda Cero stated that Konaté would become a Real Madrid player once Pérez won re-election. The deal outlined a four-year contract for the defender. Konaté expressed his desire to join the club and play under potential new leadership.
The agreement allowed Real Madrid to add depth to its defense. The club planned to sign one or two center-backs in the summer window. Ibrahima Konaté partnered effectively with Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool.
His arrival offered experience and physical presence at the back. Reports noted that Kylian Mbappé recommended his France teammate to the club.
The development came as Liverpool prepared for life without the defender. Chelsea and other European clubs showed interest but trailed Real Madrid. Florentino Pérez remained the heavy favorite to win the June 7 election.
Political observers expected the move to strengthen Real Madrid ahead of the new season. The verbal agreement marked a significant step in the club’s rebuilding plans.
