Due to concerns about Inigo Martinez and Andreas Christensen’s availability beyond the current campaign, Barcelona will soon need to add a center defender. A low-cost choice would be desired due to their well-documented financial difficulties, and Ibrahima Konate offers just that.
Real Madrid has shown a lot of interest in Konate in the last few months. Konate’s departure as a free agent is prevented by Liverpool’s desperate attempt to reach an agreement on a new contract. Nevertheless, their attempts have been unsuccessful thus far, which is why he might depart this summer.
However, in addition to Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich have also shown interest in Konate’s predicament, according to Caught Offside. Liverpool has been attempting to extend the center-back’s contract, but if an agreement cannot be reached, they will want a €50 million transfer fee to sell him.
But considering the Frenchman’s contract status, all three of the aforementioned teams—Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich—think the €50 million price tag is excessive.
Barcelona among three new clubs keen on Konate
Barcelona and Bayern Munich have reportedly entered the race to sign Konate, who would present a huge market opportunity should he decide not to renew his contract with Liverpool, according to CaughtOffside. The Premier League champions are willing to sell him for £40 million right now, but none of the interested clubs—including Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain—are willing to make the payment.
With Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia, and Andreas Christensen at manager Hansi Flick’s disposal, Barcelona is already well-stocked in the center-back position. There is now no pressing need for a new central defender because the Blaugrana could also use Jules Kounde as a center-back if needed.
Konate may therefore be attracting some interest, but if he decides not to extend his contract with Liverpool, Barça may be keeping an eye on him as a potential free agency acquisition for 2026. For the Frenchman, a move this summer seems improbable.
