The Trent Alexander-Arnold blueprint! Ibrahima Konate's transfer priority revealed as Liverpool defender enters final 12 months of his contract

According to Sky, Konate reportedly held contract talks with the Premier League champions in recent weeks but the discussions did not lead to any progress. The central defender has entered the final 12 months of his current contract and could exit Anfield for free in the summer of 2026.

The report adds that Spanish giants Real Madrid are Konate's preferred destination if he ends up becoming a free agent at the end of the 2025-26 campaign. For now, Los Blancos do not need a new centre back following the signing of Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth but the club could chase Konate next year and sign him for free.

The 26-year-old defender also has offers from several Saudi Pro League clubs, however, he is unlikely to sign for a Middle Eastern club as he does not want to exit Europe yet.

The Reds players will reconvene on Monday for pre-season training before they play their first friendly match on July 13 against Preston at Deepdale.