Real Madrid Pivot from Arsenal Target to Liverpool’s Konaté Instead

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·6 agosto 2025

Real Madrid Pivot from Arsenal Target to Liverpool’s Konaté Instead

Transfer speculation has continuously surrounded the future of William Saliba as he enters the final two years of his contract. The Frenchman has been a cornerstone of the Arsenal defence since making his debut in 2022. His partnership with Gabriel Magalhães has provided a solid foundation for Arsenal’s recent title pushes and is perhaps the major reason for their revival under Mikel Arteta.

Still only 24, the defender is attracting interest from some of the biggest clubs in the world. Real Madrid have been credited with long-term interest and had reportedly made Saliba their top defensive target. However, the Spanish giants are expected to face strong resistance from the Gunners, forcing them to consider alternative options.

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Madrid shift sights to Liverpool defender

According to a report by Defensa Central, Real Madrid are growing increasingly doubtful of their chances of signing William Saliba, prompting them to focus instead on Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté.

Madrid are reportedly wary of Arsenal convincing Saliba to sign a new contract before his current deal expires in 2027. In contrast, Konaté’s contract runs out next summer, making him a more attainable target. The Liverpool man is also said to be pushing for a move to Spain and would be eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement in January.

The report claims Madrid believe Arsenal will succeed in tying Saliba down to a new long-term deal, effectively ending their pursuit of the highly rated centre-back.

Saliba (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Gooners breathe a sigh of relief

Fans will no doubt be delighted by the latest developments. With Real Madrid shifting their attention elsewhere, it now seems increasingly likely that Saliba will commit his long-term future to Arsenal.

Losing a key player at such a pivotal moment in Arteta’s project would have been a huge setback. But all signs now point to Arsenal holding on to one of their most valuable assets.

Happy you all?! I sure am!!

Benjamin Kenneth

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