Speculation is once again surrounding the future of Ibrahima Konaté, with reports from Spain suggesting that Liverpool may be tempted to cash in on the French centre-back as early as January.

Although the transfer window only recently closed, Real Madrid’s interest in the 26-year-old continues to grow. Konaté, who has less than a year left on his Anfield contract, has yet to commit to fresh terms, leaving Liverpool in a potentially risky position.

According to Spanish outlet E-Noticies, Los Blancos are preparing a January bid in the region of €40m (£35m) for the defender. The report claims that Madrid boss Xabi Alonso is determined to strengthen his backline and views Konaté as a long-term partner in defence.

While Madrid could theoretically wait until next summer to secure him on a free transfer, the Spanish giants are said to prefer striking a deal mid-season, avoiding competition and ensuring they land their man ahead of schedule.

Liverpool, on their part, are believed to be weighing up their options. Accepting a January fee could prevent the financial blow of losing Konaté for nothing next summer if contract negotiations collapse. However, selling a key defensive figure midway through the season would undoubtedly weaken Arne Slot’s squad during a crucial campaign.

The player himself hasn’t done much to cool the speculation. A playful remark on French TV — joking that Kylian Mbappé “calls him every two hours” — has only fueled rumours of a possible Madrid switch. Adding to the intrigue, Madrid’s young star Arda Güler has reportedly spoken positively to Konaté about life at the Bernabéu.

On the pitch, the Frenchman endured a shaky start to the season but has since rediscovered his form, impressing alongside Virgil van Dijk in recent victories. That resurgence highlights just how big a blow his departure could be for Liverpool.

Club insiders maintain that Liverpool will not beg Konaté to stay if he truly wants out. Still, they remain hopeful of striking a contract extension before the year ends — a move that would silence the growing noise from Spain and secure the defender’s future on Merseyside.

The coming months will be decisive: will Liverpool tie down their defensive powerhouse, or will Real Madrid swoop in with a tempting January offer?