Antonio Rudiger reacts to Ibrahima Konate’s passionate Liverpool message
Antonio Rudiger may have stirred speculation after reacting to Ibrahima Konate’s latest post, amid growing links between the Liverpool defender and a move to Real Madrid.
Konate has been a crucial part of Liverpool’s back line this season, helping the club to a league-best 14 clean sheets in the Premier League.
The French international featured in Liverpool’s final game of the campaign—a 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace at Anfield—where the team lifted the league title.
While that was Trent Alexander-Arnold’s last game for Liverpool, questions remain whether if it was also Konate’s final appearance for the club. His contract situation remains unresolved, with just one year left on his current deal.
Football Insider revealed that Real Madrid have shown strong interest in Konate, who has emerged as a top target for the Spanish giants.
Fuelling the speculation, Real Madrid defender Rudiger drew attention after engaging with Konate’s recent post on social media.
| Premier League statistics | Ibrahima Konate |
| Appearances | 31 |
| Clean sheets | 11 |
| Goals conceded | 28 |
| Tackles | 40 |
| Tackles success rate | 65% |
Antonio Rudiger fuels Real Madrid speculation with reaction to Konate’s message
Konate posted a message on Instagram following Liverpool’s Premier League title triumph on the final day of the season. His post read: “PREMIER LEAGUE CHAMPIONS.
“A special moment for a special football club. This is for the best fans in the world. This is for you & a perfect birthday gift.”
Rudiger was among those who liked the post, an interaction that hasn’t gone unnoticed, especially given rumours linking the Liverpool defender with a move to Real Madrid.
Several of Konate’s teammates also showed their appreciation for the message, including Dominik Szoboszlai, Luis Diaz, and Jarell Quansah.
Despite Los Blancos completing a deal earlier this month for Dean Huijsen, Football Insider has revealed that Real Madrid could still push for Konate as part of a planned defensive overhaul.
The 26-year-old has just one year remaining on his current contract at Anfield, and with talks over an extension reportedly stalling, Liverpool may be more open to selling, to avoid the same situation with Alexander-Arnold.
Liverpool and Real Madrid to go head-to-head for Adam Wharton
As Real Madrid prepare to welcome Alexander-Arnold and continue to monitor Konate, the club now looks set to challenge Liverpool for another Premier League talent.
Football Insider revealed Real Madrid and Liverpool are keen on signing Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton following his standout performances this season.
Liverpool are expected to bolster their midfield this summer, and securing Wharton ahead of Real Madrid would not only strengthen their squad but also serve as a statement in a growing transfer rivalry between the two clubs.