Real Madrid eye Premier League again: Konaté and Lewis-Skelly the next targets

Real Madrid are preparing to activate once again the “free agent strategy” they have successfully implemented in recent years. Most recently used in the transfer of Trent Alexander-Arnold, the method is now being applied to two new targets: Liverpool’s French centre-back Ibrahima Konaté and Arsenal’s young talent Myles Lewis-Skelly.

According to MARCA, the Madrid board sees the fact that both players are entering the final years of their contracts as an opportunity. The plan, as with Alexander-Arnold, is to approach the players early and neutralise their current clubs’ contract renewal efforts.

All eyes on Konaté in Madrid

26-year-old Ibrahima Konaté has played a key role in Liverpool’s defence in recent years. With his physical strength, aerial dominance and reading of the game, Konaté has established himself as one of the most reliable defenders in both the Premier League and Europe.

In the 2024/25 season, he made 42 appearances in all competitions, contributing 2 goals and 2 assists. His performances have highlighted not only his defensive qualities but also his occasional support in attack.

For Liverpool, Konaté’s place in the back line is not easily replaceable. With Virgil van Dijk advancing in age, the club is seeking continued stability at the back—and Konaté is considered a central figure for that future. However, with his contract set to expire in 2026 and no renewal signed yet, Real Madrid’s interest is being emboldened.

According to Spanish outlet MARCA, Madrid are determined in their pursuit of Konaté and may make an official move in the summer if he does not reach an agreement with Liverpool. Valencia’s young defender Cristhian Mosquera is also on the list as an alternative.

Lewis-Skelly's system compatibility may complicate Madrid’s pursuit

The other player on Madrid’s radar is 17-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly. Touted as one of the brightest graduates of Arsenal’s academy in recent years, the young left-back also plays in central midfield, offering tactical flexibility across multiple roles.

This season, he made 40 official appearances for Arsenal across all competitions, scoring 1 goal and providing 2 assists.

Despite his age, he has fully adapted to Mikel Arteta’s system. Thanks to his technical ability, vision and versatility, he is a reliable figure in both defence and transitional phases. His dynamism on the left flank and positional awareness in central areas make him a close fit for the hybrid player profile required in modern football.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal are in the final stages of talks to extend his current contract, and an agreement is expected to be announced soon. However, Real Madrid’s long-term pressure tactics in such transfers could alter the course of
events.

The Alexander-Arnold example still fresh

Real Madrid’s ability to apply calculated pressure behind the scenes often limits the negotiating leverage of rival clubs. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s arrival in Madrid—already fluent in Spanish—and the backstory of a months-long build-up to the transfer show how thoroughly planned this strategy can be. Liverpool’s decision to secure a fee in this deal was seen as a gesture to allow the player to join the Club World Cup squad. Otherwise, the Spanish giants were prepared to wait a full year.

In this context, Real Madrid aim to bring Konaté in through a similar route. Should the player choose not to renew his contract, it would not be surprising to see Madrid make a move this summer rather than wait until 2026.

Madrid’s tactical edge

Real Madrid’s advantage in the transfer market is not based solely on financial power. The sporting project they offer, the platform for career development and the global spotlight they provide are all strong incentives for young talents. The examples of Mbappé, Rüdiger and Alaba illustrate how Madrid are able to persuade players. Clubs that fail to secure extensions with their soon-to-be out-of-contract players find themselves at a significant disadvantage in such battles.