Manchester United have reportedly made an offer to sign Ibrahima Konate this summer, but the outgoing Liverpool defender is thought to be keen on a move to Real Madrid.
According to reports in Spain, United are one of several clubs to have made an approach for the France international after it was confirmed he would be leaving Liverpool at the end of his contract.
Chelsea and Manchester City have also been mentioned, but Konate’s priority is said to be a move to Real Madrid.
According to Reuters, Konate will be leaving Liverpool after five years at Liverpool after negotiations over a new contract broke down due to disagreements over wages.
This is an amazing story, mainly because it involves a rivalry. It always makes big headlines when Man United sign a player immediately after leaving Liverpool.
Could Konate really join Man United?
Even if Konate was technically available as a free agent, it would be difficult to ignore the emotional aspect of this move.
From a United perspective, from a football perspective, the interest is understandable. Konate is 27 years old, has Premier League experience, is physically good and is still in his prime.
Signing him without paying a transfer fee would look attractive, especially for a club looking to strengthen several areas of their squad this summer.
Manager Virgil van Dijk has praised Konate in the past, calling him “world class”.
However, it is believed that a centre-back is not United’s biggest priority.
Harry Maguire will sign a new contract in April, while Michael Carrick’s main focus will be on midfield and attack.
Defender wants to move to Real Madrid
So while United may have tried, it’s hard to imagine this being one of the most realistic summer deals.
Konate’s departure from Liverpool remains a huge development. He joined from RB Leipzig in 2021 and became an important part of the team, helping the club win the Premier League in 2024/25, two League Cups and one FA Cup.
However, after lengthy negotiations, Liverpool decided not to meet his wage demands and allowed him to leave on a free transfer.
Real Madrid now looks like a more natural destination.
According to reports in Spain, Madrid are keen to strengthen their defensive depth this summer and there are already rumors of a potential signing.
Man United aim to bring 21G/A winger back to the Premier League
