Saliba deemed untouchable, Real Madrid now focus on Konaté deal for 2026

Real Madrid have quietly made their decision in the search for a new centre-back—and the road points away from Arsenal.

According to Defensa Central, the club has backed off its interest in William Saliba due to the sheer difficulty of the operation. Arsenal see the Frenchman as untouchable, with his contract running until 2027 and an improved renewal already in motion.

Florentino Perez and the sporting department now believe there’s no realistic way to bring Saliba to Madrid without overpaying or waiting out a long-term strategy. That’s not a path they’re willing to pursue.

Konaté emerges as the realistic target

Attention has instead turned to Ibrahima Konaté. The Liverpool defender, 26, is entering the final stretch of his contract (expiring in 2026) and has already rejected multiple renewal offers from the Merseyside club.

Inside Valdebebas, Konaté is seen as a much more attainable target—both tactically and financially. He’s made no secret of his admiration for Real Madrid and is reportedly open to joining as a free agent when the time comes.

Madrid’s plan is clear: wait. With Liverpool unwilling to negotiate at a reasonable price right now, the club is happy to bide its time. A 2026 free transfer would allow Madrid to secure a top-tier defender without triggering a bidding war.

Liverpool aware, but Madrid patient

Liverpool know Madrid are circling and are open to selling the player now—but only at a high cost. Madrid, however, refuse to rush. They believe the long-term benefits of waiting outweigh the short-term gain of an expensive transfer.

In short: Saliba is off the table. Konaté, though, is firmly on it—and the clock is ticking toward 2026.