Ibrahima Konate ‘strikes agreement for next club’ with decision on joining Chelsea | Football | Sport

Ibrahima Konate is reportedly on the verge of joining Real Madrid after leaving Liverpool on a free transfer. The defender originally joined Liverpool in 2021 and spent five years with the Merseyside outfit, winning the Premier League and several domestic cups.

It had looked as if Konate was going to put pen to paper on a new deal with Liverpool, and the Frenchman had even suggested his future remained at Anfield. However, it was announced following the conclusion of the Premier League season that Konate wouldn’t be staying on, and would instead leave on a free.

Chelsea had been rumoured as a potential suitor, with the Blues keen to add experience to their backline after a disappointing campaign. But the Club World Cup champions appear to have missed out, with a growing feeling that the centre-back is heading to Real Madrid instead.

As per The Telegraph, Konate is edging closer to joining Real Madrid, with a preliminary agreement said to have been reached. It comes after Los Blancos had reportedly walked away from a deal for Konate, having identified him as a potential target to sign on a free transfer last year.

Before his exit was confirmed, Konate had been locked in negotiations with Liverpool, and was believed to be open to staying. In a statement after the news was made public, he expressed his sadness as to not being granted a proper farewell.

He explained: “Dear Liverpool, Five years ago, I arrived as a young player with big dreams. Today, I leave with memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Representing this club has been an honour. We’ve shared incredible moments together… highs and lows, trophies, challenges, lifelong friendships, and heartbreaking moments that will stay with us forever, none more painful than losing our brother Diogo.

“Losing my father this year was one of the hardest periods of my life, but even through hardship, my commitment to this club never changed. During the toughest moments, I gave everything I had for this badge. To my teammates, coaches, staff and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for helping me grow every single day.

“And to the supporters…thank you for your love, your energy, and your incredible support. Anfield is truly a special place, and playing in front of you was something I never took for granted. I am deeply saddened that I didn’t get the chance to say goodbye to all of you at the last game. At that moment, I didn’t know it would be my final time wearing this shirt in front of you.

“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything. I love you all and will carry Liverpool with me wherever I go. This isn’t an easy goodbye, but it’s time for a new challenge and a new chapter. See you again soon, Inshallah. YNWA.”

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Announcing his departure, the 20-time champions said in a statement: “Liverpool FC can confirm Ibrahima Konate is set to leave the club upon the expiry of his contract this summer. The centre-back will depart Anfield at the end of June, bringing his five-year spell with the Reds to a conclusion.

“Signed from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2021, Konate made a total of 183 appearances and scored seven goals. The France international will leave with a Premier League winner’s medal for his role in Liverpool’s 2024-25 title triumph, as well as successes in the FA Cup, Carabao Cup (twice) and FA Community Shield.

“Konate will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for the contribution he made and everyone at the club wishes him the best for the future.”