ESPN Transfer News: Liverpool's Konate Eyed by Real Madrid
The transfer saga surrounding Konate is just one of several high-profile deals in the works, with Juventus agreeing to sign Federico Chiesa from Fiorentina and Roma closing in on a loan deal for Brighton & Hove Albion forward Evan Ferguson. Stay tuned for more updates on these developing stories and others from the world of football.
Real Madrid has made an initial proposal of €20-25 million to sign Liverpool center-back Ibrahima Konate, but the Reds value him at around €50 million, sparking a potential transfer battle this summer. Konate, 26, has a contract until 2026 and has already rejected two renewal offers from Liverpool.
The French defender's signing is seen as a strategic defensive reinforcement by Real Madrid, especially after their recent performance in the Club World Cup. Liverpool, however, are keen to keep Konate, but are not willing to meet his demands, and his deal with the club expires in June 2024. This has led to interest from other clubs, with Konate able to negotiate with foreign clubs from January 1.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are close to signing 23-year-old defender Joao Pedro from Benfica, with the deal expected to be finalized in the next 24 hours. The transfer fee is expected to exceed €95 million. The Reds are also prioritizing attacking changes ahead of the upcoming campaign, with a marquee attacker on their radar, and have lodged an enquiry for Newcastle's Alexander Isak.
As the summer transfer window heats up, Liverpool and Real Madrid are set to engage in a battle for top talent, with Konate's future hanging in the balance. With several confirmed deals and rumors circulating, the football world is bracing for a thrilling transfer season, with ESPN bringing you all the latest updates and news.