Arsenal warns Real Madrid about Saliba's price and clarifies the Konaté case

The Merengue team desperately needs a defender who can provide the necessary guarantees in the back line for this upcoming season. In this regard, the names on the minds of Los Blancos are William Saliba and Ibrahima Konaté. However, Arsenal's stance regarding the center-back has made it clear that the target is Konaté due to cost and waiting time.

The Liverpool defender, in addition to not costing anywhere near the more than €100 million Arsenal are demanding, is a great option. Alonso considers him one of his main requirements for the campaign, and in terms of attributes, he's a better choice. Still, Florentino has a big job to do as well, although all the effort will now be focused in one direction.

Konaté is the target

While Saliba, who arrived at Arsenal after several seasons on loan in France, is a great target, not under these conditions. Arsenal have managed to get the most out of this center-back, who has shown a lot both in the Premier League and Ligue 1. More than 4,400 minutes (4,400) in 51 matches last season with the London club prove it, in addition to a great Champions League campaign.

However, the Gunners' stance regarding his market value is not viable at all for Madrid. His contract ends in 2027, which still keeps him out of the favorable financial scenario that Konaté does have.

The Liverpool defender, meanwhile, is entering his final contract year, which makes him worth less than €60 million. This could represent a very lucrative investment for Madrid for a player who, if he doesn't arrive this summer, will come for free the next. It's a perfect deal for a world-class player who has performed brilliantly both at Leipzig and in the Premier League.

It's clear

Florentino has a clear plan, now it's up to the president to decide what comes next. Although there's still a significant market window left to evaluate options and choose the best one for the team.