Spanish giants Real Madrid have confirmed the signing of France international Ibrahima Konaté on a four-year contract after the centre-back decided to leave Liverpool at the end of June.
The 27-year-old will join Real Madrid as a free agent after negotiations over a new contract with Liverpool failed to produce an agreement. Reports indicate that differences over wages and the player’s valuation ultimately prevented the two parties from extending his stay at Anfield.
In a statement, Real Madrid announced that an agreement had been reached for Konaté to join the club until June 30, 2030.
Konaté is currently away with the France national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup but has already secured his future by committing to the Spanish giants.
The defender joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in 2021 in a deal worth £35 million and went on to establish himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable centre-backs. During his five-year spell at Anfield, he made 183 appearances across all competitions and helped Liverpool win the Premier League title, the FA Cup and two League Cups.
Ahead of his departure, Konaté expressed disappointment at not having the opportunity to properly bid farewell to Liverpool supporters during the club’s final Premier League fixture of the season against Brentford.
“I was deeply saddened that I didn’t get the chance to say goodbye,” Konaté said. “At that moment, I didn’t know it would be my final time wearing this shirt in front of you.”
His arrival continues Real Madrid’s summer rebuild as the club strengthens its defensive options ahead of the new season. Konaté is expected to add experience, physicality and leadership to Madrid’s back line as they target domestic and European success under their new project.
For Liverpool, the departure marks the end of a successful chapter for one of their key defenders, while Real Madrid secure a proven international performer without paying a transfer fee.
