❌ Madrid rule out signing Konaté, according to The Athletic

Real Madrid has made a firm decision regarding one of the names that was strongly considered to strengthen their defense. According to The Athletic this Friday, the white club has withdrawn from the race to sign Liverpool's center-back, Ibrahima Konaté, clearing the way for the Reds in their attempt to retain him.

The information details that the white team has communicated to the Reds in a "direct and unequivocal" manner that they have no interest in signing the French international. This news puts an end to the intense speculations linking the defender with a move to Santiago Bernabéu.

Konaté, 26, is in a delicate contractual situation, as from January 1 he could negotiate and reach a pre-contract with foreign teams upon the conclusion of his current contract. However, optimism remains at Anfield. The club has shown a strong intention to extend the center-back's contract.

Negotiations began in 2023 and were later taken over by sporting director Richard Hughes, who started his position on June 1, 2024. Despite the club's efforts, the final outcome will now largely depend on Konaté's own priorities and whether he decides to continue his career in Merseyside or seek new directions.

The fact that Real Madrid is withdrawing from the race is a point in favor for Liverpool. Now, the English club hopes that the player decides to commit long-term, maintaining hope that the outcome of this contractual situation can still be resolved in any direction, avoiding his departure as a free agent.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

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