Real Madrid are reportedly planning a significant double swoop for Liverpool defenders Ibrahima Konaté and Trent Alexander-Arnold to bolster their defense for the 2025/26 season, according to emerging reports. The Spanish giants are closely monitoring the situation of both players, as revealed by various sources, including insights from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Ibrahima Konaté, who joined Liverpool in 2021, has become a pivotal figure in the Reds’ defensive line alongside Virgil van Dijk. This season, the 25-year-old French centre-back has delivered impressive performances, contributing two goals and two assists across all competitions. However, with his contract set to expire in 2026 and no agreement yet reached on an extension with Liverpool, speculation about his future has intensified. Not only Real Madrid but also Paris Saint-Germain are said to be tracking the defender, creating uncertainty at Anfield.
In contrast, Trent Alexander-Arnold appears increasingly likely to leave Liverpool at the end of the current season, as his contract is due to expire in June 2025. Losing the England right-back would be a major blow to Liverpool, especially given their position at the top of the 2024/25 Premier League table. However, the Merseyside club has shown little decisive action in retaining the 26-year-old, fueling Real Madrid’s confidence in securing his signature for the Bernabéu.
Fabrizio Romano, a leading authority on transfer news, recently provided clarity on the situation, stating: *”Real Madrid are pushing hard for Trent Alexander-Arnold, and it’s no secret they see him as a priority for the summer. For Ibrahima Konaté, there’s genuine interest from Madrid and PSG, but Liverpool are still in talks. This could be a massive double move for Real if everything falls into place.”*
Beyond the Liverpool duo, Real Madrid are also eyeing AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez to strengthen their left-back position. Meanwhile, the club is determined to retain key attacking stars like Rodrygo, despite interest from other European giants. Interestingly, Real have reportedly cooled their interest in Arsenal’s William Saliba, who was once a target for a record-breaking bid exceeding £85 million (over €100 million). The decision stems from the rising form of young defender Asencio and the more cost-effective option of Konaté, whose contract situation makes him an attractive target compared to Saliba.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Real Madrid’s ambition to reinforce their squad with top-tier talent from Liverpool could reshape the dynamics of both clubs, setting the stage for an exciting 2025/26 campaign.