Roy Keane questions Mohamed Salah exit as Real Madrid target Ibrahima Konate
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has criticised the timing of Mohamed Salah’s announced departure from Liverpool, while Real Madrid are reportedly weighing up a move for defender Ibrahima Konate.
The Merseyside club recently suffered a damaging defeat to Brighton, marking their tenth loss of what has been a deeply frustrating campaign.
That setback was quickly overshadowed by the Egyptian forward confirming he will depart Anfield at the end of the current season.
The 33-year-old has enjoyed a spectacular nine-year stint in England, but his decision to make his impending exit public has raised eyebrows.
Keane warns of Anfield negativity
Television pundit Roy Keane believes the early disclosure could backfire on the club if their form continues to stutter under Arne Slot.
The outspoken Irishman suggested that the legendary winger should have waited until the summer to confirm his intentions.
“I’m not sure it’s ideal timing to announce that,” Keane said.
“I don’t know why he doesn’t wait until the end of the season.”
Keane highlighted that supporters may quickly turn on the prolific goalscorer if his performances drop during the crucial final months of his contract.
“If Liverpool finish the season really badly, and they’ve not been great… they’ll be saying, ‘He’s already left the club and his heart is not in it.'”
Real Madrid circle for defensive reinforcements
Alongside the distraction of their talisman’s departure, the Anfield hierarchy are also facing a battle to retain a key defensive asset.
Spanish giants Real Madrid have reportedly opened dialogue with representatives for French centre-back Ibrahima Konate.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side are assessing their long-term options at the back amid uncertainty over Antonio Rudiger’s future in the Spanish capital.
While Los Blancos originally targeted Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck, the German international is heavily tipped to sign a new contract in the Bundesliga.
That development has reportedly forced the La Liga club to pivot towards the Reds defender as a primary summer transfer option.
