Ibrahima Konate is expected to be one of the hottest names of the summer transfer window, after deciding not to renew his contract with Liverpool.
The French defender will leave Anfield at the end of his current deal, ending long-running negotiations with the English club. Talks between the parties at one point seemed close to an agreement, but in recent weeks have completely broken down.
Konate’s move makes him one of the most sought-after players on the European market. His value as a free agent is reportedly around €50m, putting him ahead of the likes of Dusan Vlahovic and Bernardo Silva on the list of players who could be transferred on a free transfer.
Interest in the Frenchman has already taken on serious proportions. According to Sky Sports, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Chelsea have made initial contacts with the player’s agent to learn the terms of a possible transfer.
Real Madrid have been monitoring the centre-back for months and see him as an ideal addition to their defensive line. Los Blancos are looking to sign at least one centre-back this summer, and the opportunity to secure a player of Konate’s calibre without paying a release clause is seen as a golden opportunity.
However, competition is expected to be fierce. Bayern Munich and Chelsea are also set to make a strong bid, while interest in the Frenchman continues to grow from other European clubs.
Konate has been one of Liverpool’s most important players this season, logging over 4,000 minutes in all competitions. He now finds himself at the centre of one of the biggest transfer battles of the summer transfer window, with European giants vying for his signature
