Real Madrid have reportedly informed Liverpool on their plans to end their interest in signing Ibrahima Konate.
The 26-year-old is in the last year of his Anfield contract. The Frenchman is looking for a huge pay increase that more accurately represents his assured starting position in the team.
But this season, Konate’s output has drastically decreased, and the center back is now costing Liverpool goals nearly every week.
Many think Real Madrid’s confirmed interest has turned his head. Konate was reportedly designated by Los Blancos as their top defensive target for the upcoming summer, and the two parties might agree a pre-contract on January 1.
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However, according to The Athletic, the Spanish giants has reportedly given up on the player.
The report read: “The Athletic can reveal the La Liga side have informed their Premier League counterparts directly and unequivocally that — despite such heavy speculation — they now have no interest in recruiting the France international.”
Madrid will now pursue other objectives. They are said to be keeping an eye on Dayot Upamecano, whose contract with Bayern Munich expires in the summer.
Liverpool are still hopeful that Konate would sign an extension, according to the report.
Additionally, the piece stated that people close to the matter believe Liverpool have demonstrated ‘strong intent’ throughout the saga, which may resonate with Konate and eventually influence his choice.
The report added: “It is felt at Anfield that the club hierarchy have shown strong intent throughout to extend the 26-year-old centre-back’s career on Merseyside. However, a lot will now depend on Konate’s priorities.”
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