Konate’s contract stalemate deepens as Real Madrid drop interest

November 30, 2025 Oliver Obel

Liverpool have dealt with high-profile negotiations before. English outlets reported last year that Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah eventually agreed new contracts, while Trent Alexander-Arnold opted to leave for Real Madrid after declining an extension.

The club hoped to avoid a repeat with Konate. The Athletic noted that Liverpool began discussions with his representatives as early as 2023, yet nothing has moved forward.

Asked about the rumors two weeks ago, Konate said his agents were still in contact with the club, adding, “My agents continue to discuss with Liverpool. I hope my decision will be made very soon so I can announce it.” He also rejected claims that Liverpool had already made a formal offer.

A difficult stretch on the pitch

Konate’s recent performances have only increased the scrutiny. His mistake in the 4 to 1 Champions League defeat to PSV Eindhoven drew heavy criticism and highlighted a broader drop in confidence.

After the match, he posted a message urging supporters to stay with the team, writing, “We have to take this moment on the chest, we will fight back every time and come through this storm.”

Liverpool continue to rely on him, partly because defensive depth is limited. The club’s failure to land Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi in the last window has left manager Arne Slot short of alternatives, especially with injuries affecting the back line.

Interest from Madrid fades

Earlier speculation suggested Real Madrid might explore a move for Konate. The Athletic now reports that the Spanish club has stepped away from the idea and no longer view him as a target. The shift may strengthen Liverpool’s position, although Konate will still be free to negotiate with overseas sides in January under Bosman rules.

Since joining from RB Leipzig, he has made around 150 appearances for the Reds and has often been viewed as the natural partner to Van Dijk when fully fit.

Calls for decisiveness

Former Liverpool midfielder Vladimir Smicer believes Konate should settle his plans quickly. Speaking to BoyleSports, Smicer said that players perform with more certainty when their future is resolved.

He pointed to last season’s contract stories involving Van Dijk, Salah and Alexander-Arnold, saying that prolonged uncertainty weighs on both the squad and the supporters. According to Smicer, long-term stability helps a player’s confidence, their daily life and their place in the team.

What comes next for Liverpool and Konate

Liverpool travel to West Ham this weekend. It is a chance for Konate to steady his form and for the club to regain footing during a challenging stretch. Matches against Sunderland and Leeds United follow, and UK coverage has suggested these results could influence the pressure surrounding Slot’s position.

Sources: The Athletic, BoyleSports, English media reporting.