Real Madrid resume Ibrahima Konate interest as Schlotterbeck slips down the list

Real Madrid have reportedly revived their pursuit of Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate, as Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck falls further down the club’s defensive wishlist.

The Spanish giants are eyeing a significant defensive overhaul ahead of next season, with the objective of reinforcing a backline that has struggled with age and recurring injuries.

Konate, 26, remains undecided over his future at Anfield, and his contract is set to expire at the end of the season. This uncertainty has opened the door for Real Madrid to enter the fray, with the prospect of securing the Frenchman without a transfer fee providing an attractive proposition.

German publication BILD reports that Schlotterbeck, once a priority for the Madrid hierarchy, is no longer at the top of the list. Dortmund are likely to demand a transfer fee in the region of €40 million, which could be a deterrent for Los Blancos, who may prefer the cost-free alternative in Konate. Schlotterbeck has also been linked with a potential move to Barcelona, further complicating Madrid’s pursuit.

Real Madrid’s defensive reshuffle is seen as urgent following injuries to key players and the gradual aging of their current centre-back options.

The club is keen to bring in younger, more resilient options to anchor the defence, and Konate’s profile fits that vision. Known for his athleticism and composure on the ball, the French international could provide both immediate quality and long-term stability at the heart of Madrid’s defence.

With the summer transfer window approaching, Madrid appear to be preparing a strategic approach to secure Konate’s services, capitalising on his free-agent status. If successful, it would mark a significant coup for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, allowing them to strengthen their squad without a major outlay while sidelining rivals in the race for defensive reinforcements.

The coming months are expected to bring clarity on Konate’s future, as Real Madrid weigh their options and position themselves to rebuild a defence capable of sustaining domestic and European challenges in the years ahead.