Mansion Sports – Real Madrid is planning to strengthen several areas of their squad in the upcoming summer transfer window. One of the positions that has become a focus for the team managed by Alvaro Arbeloa is central defense.

With David Alaba’s contract set to expire in June, and with the possibility of Antonio Rudiger also following his departure, one or two new players will be required to fill the vacant positions they would leave behind.

In recent weeks, there has been considerable discussion regarding Real Madrid’s interest in Nico Schlotterbeck, who appears likely to leave Borussia Dortmund in the summer.

In addition, Madrid is also highly interested in signing Liverpool’s young defender, Ibrahima Konate.

Ibrahima Konate Returns to Madrid’s Radar

Real Madrid had previously shown interest in the 26-year-old defender, before setting aside the pursuit earlier in the season, but his name has now returned to their agenda.

According to MD, an agreement to bring the French international to the Santiago Bernabeu is drawing closer, as he has yet to commit to a new contract with Liverpool.

Konate’s current contract expires at the end of the season, and he has not yet decided where he will play next season.

The possibility of remaining at Liverpool has not been entirely ruled out, but with each passing day, that likelihood appears to be diminishing, which would certainly benefit Real Madrid’s position.

Konate Could Represent a Significant Upgrade Over Alaba

In terms of replacing Alaba, there is no doubt that Konate would represent a significant upgrade. Although he has not had his best season with Liverpool, at his peak, he is regarded as one of the best defenders in the Premier League.

Real Madrid will certainly hope that he can return to that level of performance if he joins in the summer.

At present, there remains considerable uncertainty regarding Konate’s situation at Liverpool, but this actually works in Real Madrid’s favor.

Signing him on a free transfer would represent an excellent piece of business, while also allowing the club to allocate more funds to strengthen other areas of the squad that require improvement during the transfer window.