Comparing Real Madrid’s Target Ibrahima Konate to Antonio Rudiger

With July upon us, numerous footballers are facing the prospect of having just a year remaining on their contracts.

This juncture presents a prime opportunity for both clubs and players to finalise beneficial arrangements since it’s arguably the last chance for a parent club to negotiate a decent fee for a player who may be inclined to depart at the end of the term.

Many players poised for free transfers in a year

In six months’ time, discussions with competing clubs can commence, paving the way for a free transfer come next summer.

This situation can be appealing for players, as they can often negotiate a heftier signing-on bonus since the purchasing club is not required to pay a transfer fee – for instance, Ibrahima Konate is currently valued at around £40 million.

Reports indicate that the French defender has thus far avoided negotiations with Liverpool, leaving the Reds vulnerable to rival interest.

Speculation suggests that Real Madrid is once again eyeing talent from Anfield, and after acquiring Trent Alexander-Arnold, they are keen to pursue a reunion with the right-back.

Liverpool’s reported interest in Crystal Palace’s solid defender, Marc Guehi, likely signifies that the Premier League club recognises the slim chances of persuading Konate to stay.

The question remains whether Liverpool might force Konate’s hand, especially if he has hinted at a preference to relocate to Madrid – a move that may minimize his playing time in the 2025/26 season.

Could Konate be the ideal replacement for Rudiger?

When comparing potential replacements for Antonio Rudiger, one could argue that Konate fits the bill perfectly.

The two share similar physical attributes and an intense competitive spirit, although Konate possesses superior speed.

Rudiger, known for his remarkable pace as a centre-back, has faced challenges owing to knee issues that have somewhat hampered his performance.

Last season saw Rudiger struggle in several high-profile El Clasico matches, a clear indication that he can no longer be relied upon as the top choice centre-back for Real Madrid in crucial fixtures.

However, Real Madrid may face competition in their pursuit of Konate, as Paris Saint-Germain also appears to be interested in bringing him back to his birthplace. The allure of playing in the French capital is evident, but the question arises: what can either club expect in return for their investment?

Konate has recorded a 63.4% success rate in tackles, surpassing Virgil van Dijk’s 52.5%. When considering Rudiger’s defensive prowess, he remains respectable with a rate of 61.5%.

Additionally, Konate made 138 clearances in the 2024/25 season—second only to Van Dijk—while also recording 71 headed clearances, though his 18 interceptions leave room for improvement compared to his teammates.

The importance of basic defensive skills in modern football

Rudiger’s stats show 117 clearances and 70 headed clearances, which are decent, but his 11 interceptions fall short compared to Konate’s metrics.

Rudiger’s one-on-one duel success rate of 57.1% pales in comparison to Konate’s impressive 65.9%, highlighting the combative nature that defines the Frenchman’s style of play.

Like Rudiger, Konate thrives on confrontation, consistently seeking the advantage over his direct opponents.

Some might label such an approach as ‘old-fashioned’ and perhaps misaligned with contemporary defensive ideals—think Madrid’s Dean Huijsen—but there remains a clear role for fundamental defensive strategies in today’s game.

The pressing question is whether Konate will dig in his heels to secure a free transfer in a year’s time, which could risk alienating him from Arne Slot, or if Florentino Perez will act now to avoid potential issues later.

For Liverpool, losing such a valuable player would be a significant blow, particularly given how well he has combined with Van Dijk. However, a successful acquisition of England international Guehi could cushion the impact of any departure.