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Jun 18, 2026 Major3
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Real Madrid Signs France Defender Ibrahima Konaté to Four-Year Deal
Real Madrid has signed France defender Ibrahima Konaté to a four-year contract as a free agent after his Liverpool deal expired. The announcement was made while Konaté is with his national team at the World Cup, fulfilling a campaign promise by Madrid president Florentino Pérez.
Quick Facts
Who
Real Madrid
What
Signed a four-year contract
When
Thursday
Where
Madrid
- Signed a four-year contract
- Announced the deal while at the World Cup
- Completed a campaign promise
- Left Liverpool as a free agent
- Real Madrid
Real Madrid has completed the signing of France defender Ibrahima Konaté on a four-year contract, the Spanish club announced on Thursday. The deal was confirmed while Konaté is with the French national team at the 2026 World Cup in the United States.
Konaté, 27, joined Madrid as a free agent after his contract with Liverpool expired. The central defender had been with Liverpool since 2021, when he transferred from RB Leipzig. During his time at Anfield, he helped the club win the Premier League in 2025 and the FA Cup in 2022.
The move fulfills a campaign promise made by Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, who was re-elected earlier this month. Konaté has not yet featured in the World Cup, remaining on the bench during France's opening 3-1 victory over Senegal on Tuesday.
Real Madrid's acquisition strengthens their defensive lineup as the club prepares for the upcoming season. Konaté is expected to join his new teammates after the conclusion of the World Cup.
Why This Matters
Konaté's signing represents a significant defensive reinforcement for Real Madrid during a period of squad rebuilding under re-elected president Pérez. For fans and analysts, this free-agent acquisition demonstrates Madrid's strategic approach to bolstering their defense ahead of the new season, while also signaling the club's ambition to compete at the highest levels. The timing—announced during the World Cup—adds intrigue to Madrid's transfer strategy and shows their readiness to move quickly on key targets.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2021
WireIbrahima Konaté joins Liverpool from RB Leipzig.
Jan 1, 2022
WireKonaté helps Liverpool win the FA Cup.
Jan 1, 2025
WireKonaté helps Liverpool win the Premier League.
Jun 16, 2026
WireFrance defeats Senegal 3-1 in World Cup opener; Konaté remains on bench.
Jun 18, 2026
WireReal Madrid announces signing of Ibrahima Konaté to a four-year contract.