Fabrizio Romano explains difference between Real Madrid pursuits of William Saliba and Ibrahim Konate | OneFootball

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.

William Saliba situation depends on Arsenal

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.

Ibrahima Konate not in active talks with Liverpool

Image via Mateusz Slodkowski/Getty Images

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.

Giovanni Leoni injury could change situation

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.