Ibrahima Konate transfer news: Defender edges closer to joining Real Madrid as talks continue with LaLiga giants

Ibrahima Konate is in talks to join Real Madrid after it was confirmed he would leave Liverpool as a free agent.

The France international made 183 appearances for the Reds since signing from RB Leipzig in 2021, helping them lift the Premier League, FA Cup and two League Cups.

"Finances are not the issue; they have been pretty good over the years at balancing the books.

"Yes, they had a big spend [last season]. But the net spend was not massive because of the players they were able to offload.

"In that respect, they are in good shape. They do need to add to the squad, though.

"When you look at the squad, they need to bring in pace to the wide forward areas. Yan Diomande is one they have identified but they are facing competition.

"You look at the back line, [Jeremy] Jacquet is coming in, [Giovanni] Leoni is already there but he's been out all season with the ACL [injury]. They are two young lads at centre-half.

"Konate is also gone. You have to wonder if they need further experience there. Particularly with the injury record of Joe Gomez and Connor Bradley.

"One other area which would help Iraola is at No 6. Ryan Gravenberch has been successful but his workload has been massive.

"It's a huge summer for Liverpool, with key decisions needed if they are to play the brand of football they want going forward."