Xabi Alonso’s experience at the Club World Cup made it clear to him that Real Madrid‘s defense needs a shake-up. The coach opted for new signing Dean Huijsen, which was a great move, but his absence through suspension in the match against PSG was a disaster. Asencio has had a tournament to forget, and Rüdiger is still not 100% fit. Eder Militao also returned, but only as a token gesture. Now we will have to see what decisions the coach makes when he returns to work, and the possibility of a last-minute signing cannot be ruled out. The Whites are already scouting the market ahead of next summer, as both David Alaba and Rüdiger are out of contract. They are now considering speeding up some of these deals.
Real Madrid moves forward for Konaté
Real Madrid wants Konaté and Konaté wants to play for Real Madrid. The two sides are in complete agreement and it is only a matter of time before he joins the team. There is a dilemma, however, as the player’s contract with Liverpool expires next summer and he has already decided not to renew. This means that the center back would arrive at no cost in June 2026. However, there is a possibility that he could arrive this summer, and the Whites are considering that option.
Real Madrid believe that now is the perfect time to move forward with negotiations. L’Équipe has reported that the Whites have already contacted Liverpool to find out first-hand what the English club’s intentions are regarding Konaté’s future. In recent days, it has become clear that the Reds are determined to let him go and are willing to negotiate a transfer this summer.
The problem is that Florentino has set a maximum price of €25 million, and Liverpool would like to get at least €50 million for the deal. Chamartín is confident that the English club, aware that it will lose him in a year without financial gain, will give in during negotiations, although it is also looking at other options in the market.
Saliba back on the scene
The newspaper L’Equipe also reports that Real Madrid has once again set its sights on an old transfer target. According to the newspaper, the Whites are evaluating the situation of William Saliba at Arsenal. The signing of Valencia’s Christian Mosquera by the London club could open the door for the Frenchman’s move to Real Madrid. With a contract that expires in 2027, Saliba could leave during 2026.
At 24, he has been in the elite for eight years. At just 16, he made his debut and established himself at Saint-Étienne. At that time, Real Madrid had already set their sights on the young talent. After several loan spells, he established himself at the London club, becoming one of the best center backs around. Saliba is 6’3″ and has tremendous power. He is good in the air, strong in the tackle, and good with the ball out of defense, something that would convince Xabi Alonso.