Barcelona, August 16, 2025 — A classic El Clásico battle may be brewing off the pitch as both Barcelona and Real Madrid prepare to go head-to-head for the signature of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté, whose contract at Anfield enters its final year.
With no signs of a contract extension on the horizon, the 26-year-old French international is emerging as one of the most in-demand free agents for the summer of 2026. Now, two of football’s biggest rivals are circling—and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Barcelona’s Defensive Dilemma
Following the departure of veteran defender Iñigo Martínez to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, Barcelona are left with just four senior centre-back options—a risky number for a club competing on multiple fronts. While the Catalan giants have opted not to sign a replacement this summer due to their ongoing financial restrictions, plans are already being made for next year’s window, and Konaté’s situation has caught their attention.
Sources close to the club confirm that Barça will be targeting a central defender in 2026, and with Konaté potentially available on a free transfer, he fits both the sporting and financial profile the club is seeking.
However, Barcelona are not alone in their interest.
Madrid’s Move May Come Early
Real Madrid have reportedly been tracking Konaté closely for months, and with uncertainty over their long-term central defensive options, Los Blancos could make their move sooner than expected. While they initially planned to wait until next summer to swoop in as part of a free deal, there is growing internal pressure to sign him before the end of the current transfer window.
Madrid’s defensive line could benefit from Konaté’s blend of physical dominance, speed, and Champions League experience. Club scouts have been impressed with his performances in both domestic and European competitions for Liverpool, and Carlo Ancelotti is believed to be a strong admirer.
The Player Holds the Cards
For now, Konaté remains silent about his future. He has given no public indication of wanting to extend his stay at Liverpool, nor has he expressed any preference between the Spanish giants. His next move will likely depend on both sporting guarantees and financial offers—two areas where Barcelona and Madrid will be fighting tooth and nail.
A New Clásico Brewing
If Konaté does not renew with Liverpool, fans may be in for a blockbuster summer saga in 2026, with two of football’s biggest powerhouses battling for one of the most complete defenders in the modern game.
Whether he lands in Catalonia’s Camp Nou or Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu, one thing is clear: Ibrahima Konaté is about to become the hottest name in the free transfer market.
