Problems with Florentino's favorite center-back, surprise in England: 'Soon'

Real Madrid receives a cold shower. William Saliba, one of the defenders most valued by the club's board, is moving away from the club. The latest statements from the French player have caused surprise.

In the mixed zone after the friendly between Arsenal and Newcastle, Saliba was clear: "I hope to renew soon. God is great, this year we're going to try to win everything," he told AFTVmedia's microphones. A brief but very significant response.

A goal that slips away

Florentino Pérez and his team had marked Saliba as a real option. Not immediate, but for the future. The plan was for the center-back not to renew with Arsenal because his contract expires in 2027 (2027).

Real Madrid has been following him for years. In fact, before signing Militao, his name was already on the table. Injuries in defense have reopened the internal debate about signing another center-back and Saliba was one of the favorites.

However, Arsenal has moved quickly. Arteta considers him a key piece and in London they're willing to offer him a contract improvement. Everything indicates that the agreement is close to being finalized.

Konaté, the new plan

Given this scenario, Real Madrid is considering other alternatives. One of them is Ibrahima Konaté, Saliba's national teammate. The Liverpool center-back is also highly regarded in Valdebebas.

His contractual situation is different, Konaté's contract ends in 2026 (2026), a year before Saliba's. For now, he hasn't reached a renewal agreement with Liverpool. That has caught the club's attention.

In Madrid, they believe he could become a free agent if he doesn't extend his contract. There's also the option of a transfer this summer. However, that will depend on Liverpool.

The interest in Konaté is serious. His youth, his physique, and his experience at the top level make him a very attractive profile to strengthen the merengue defense.

For now, the Saliba route is cooling off, but Real Madrid isn't stopping. In Valdebebas, they're already working with other options. Florentino wants a young, reliable center-back with potential: the casting remains open.