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Real Madrid secure Konate on free transfer from Liverpool

BBC Sport Football •
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Real Madrid have secured a deal for Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate on a four-year contract running until June 2030. The 27-year-old France international will join the Spanish giants when his current deal expires at the end of June, bringing an end to his four-year spell at Anfield.

Konate departs after 183 appearances for the Reds, having joined from RB Leipzig in 2021 for £35m. He won the Premier League, FA Cup and two League Cups during his time on Merseyside. Contract negotiations broke down due to differences over valuation and wages, leading to the free transfer.

The centre-back is currently with France's squad preparing for the 2026 World Cup. He expressed disappointment at not being able to bid farewell properly after the final Premier League match against Brentford on May 24, admitting he didn't realize it would be his last appearance in front of the Kop.

Real Madrid gain an experienced defender who brings Champions League know-how and Premier League title-winning pedigree to their backline. Konate's departure represents a significant loss for Liverpool's defensive options ahead of next season.