Antonio Rüdiger trembles: Florentino Pérez seals a key signing for the 26-27 season

Real Madrid's immediate future is being shaped quietly, away from the spotlight, but with a very clear strategy.

The board is working ahead of time to finalize signings, as they did last summer by signing Álvaro Carreras or Dean Huijsen.

In this regard, the reports circulating among intermediaries and agents point to a target. Although nothing can be signed yet, the feeling in the European soccer environment is clear.

The player in question's contract ends in 2026 and he has no intention of renewing it with his current club. Real Madrid has identified the opportunity and already has very advanced contacts with his camp.

Florentino Pérez wants to avoid surprises. The plan is to finalize the move as soon as the regulations allow and thus secure a top-level reinforcement.

A center back on the agenda

The protagonist of this story is Ibrahima Konaté, Liverpool's center back, whose arrival at Santiago Bernabéu is considered a done deal in 99% of agent circles.

His contract ends in 2026 and, starting in January, he will be free to negotiate directly with any club.

Real Madrid keeps an excellent relationship with his representatives and trusts everything will be settled in the coming months.

Although in England they insist Liverpool hasn't given up, there is optimism in Valdebebas.

Moreover, the deal would come with the advantage that Konaté could arrive as a free agent. That would allow the club to invest resources in other strategic positions, while also strengthening a backline in need of fresh air.

Xabi Alonso has told the board that defense is a priority and that having a profile like the Frenchman's would make a difference.

A profile that fits with Real Madrid

Konaté isn't having his best season in the Premier League, but Madrid believes in his potential. His 25 years and his ability to grow in a new context are strong arguments for the club.

He stands out for his strength in aerial balls and defending crosses from the flanks. These are two aspects that have been a headache for Real Madrid at the start of this season.

That's exactly why his profile fits perfectly with what Xabi Alonso is asking for. In addition, the experience he has gained at Anfield Road, where he has played in high-pressure matches, would give Real Madrid a reinforcement ready to compete from day one.

Caution until January

Even though everything seems to be on track, the club keeps calm. It won't be until January when concrete moves can be made and the direct negotiation plan is activated.

Real Madrid is clear: Konaté is the priority to strengthen the defense in the medium term. If the deal goes through, it would be one of the board's greatest successes in recent years.