Real Madrid are in the market for another central defender next summer, and two of the Premier League’s finest are in their crosshairs. French duo Ibrahima Konate and William Saliba have been linked to the club for much of 2025, but Fabrizio Romano has explained that there is a difference in Real Madrid’s approach to both players.
The reason Los Blancos want another central defender after spending €60m on Dean Huijsen is that they expect both David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger to move on next summer at the end of their contracts. It would leave Xabi Alonso with just three natural options.
Fabrizio Romano has revealed on his podcast that the situation regarding Saliba depends entirely on Arsenal. While Real Madrid are interested in Saliba, and feel he is one of the best signings they could make, Arsenal are in contract talks with the Frenchman. Only if Arsenal fail to get a deal done before next summer, when he enters the final year of his deal, will they make a move for him.
Meanwhile Konate is seemingly keen to make the switch to Real Madrid, and he can sign a deal with them in just three months’ time. Beyond that, Liverpool are not in active talks to extend Konate’s deal at this point, which increases the chance of a move taking place.
However Diario AS say that a cruciate ligament injury to Giovanni Leoni, ruling him out for most of the season, could change the situation with Konate. Leoni was tipped to grow under Arne Slot this season before taking on an important role, but Liverpool could now revisit a renewal for Konate, or attempt to move for Marc Guehi again as a result.
hiwbciknrs
25
Real Madrid have a very filthy way of destabilising players at other clubs, when they have interest. They use paid freelance football journalists or agents to privately make their interest known. They then pretend to be uninterested and will not make approach. The player in question who might have a year or two left on his contract will most likely refuse to extend his contract. If there is no promise made why refuse extension or even pay rise. Who does not want money? Infact it's why they are playing football
lepmoprstz
10
Stingy approach just pay the money and get the deal done rather than waiting for free and a cheap deal