Real Madrid are rarely denied in the transfer market, but they have suffered a setback in their pursuit of William Saliba.

Arsenal announced that the French centre-back has signed a new contract until 2030, ruling out any hope Madrid had of bringing him to Spain in the near future.

Los Blancos viewed Saliba as a long-term defensive anchor, but his renewal means Xabi Alonso and the club’s recruitment team must look elsewhere.

With Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba both out of contract at the end of the season, Madrid’s need to reinforce at centre-back remains urgent.

The current pool of options includes Dean Huijsen, Raul Asencio and Eder Militao, alongside Rudiger and Alaba.

While Huijsen and Asencio represent promising investments for the future, Madrid had hoped Saliba could accelerate their defensive rebuild. Now, they must turn their focus to alternative targets.

Konate emerges as prime alternative

The most realistic replacement on Madrid’s list is Ibrahima Konate. The Liverpool defender’s contract runs out at the end of this season, meaning Madrid can open negotiations in January and potentially secure him on a free transfer.

At 26, Konate is entering his peak years and would bring both physicality and Champions League experience. However, his track record with injuries raises some concern.

If he can maintain fitness, Konate could represent a cost-effective way for Madrid to strengthen their backline, continuing their recent trend of securing top talent from Liverpool after signing Trent Alexander-Arnold in 2025.

Upamecano also on the radar

Another French defender attracting Madrid’s attention is Dayot Upamecano. Currently at Bayern Munich, his contract runs until 2026, and while he has previously expressed a desire to stay, the situation has since cooled.

Madrid’s interest in Upamecano dates back to his RB Leipzig days, and he fits the mould of a strong, front-foot defender who could adapt well to La Liga.

Bayern are expected to fight to keep him, but if an opportunity arises – particularly on a free – Madrid will not be far away.

Lukeba represents long-term potential

A younger option being monitored is Castello Lukeba of RB Leipzig. At 22, he is already showcasing significant promise as a left-footed centre-back.

His ability to carry the ball and his composure in one-on-one duels mark him out as one of the more exciting defensive prospects in Europe.

However, with his contract running until 2029, prising him away will be a difficult task. Leipzig have proven tough negotiators in recent years, and Madrid would likely need to pay a premium to secure him before his deal runs down.

Madrid’s defensive dilemma

Saliba’s new Arsenal deal has forced Madrid to rethink their defensive plans. While Huijsen and Asencio provide youthful depth, Alonso will want established quality alongside Militao as Rudiger and Alaba edge towards exits.

Konate stands out as the most attainable option given his contract situation, while Upamecano and Lukeba represent high-level alternatives depending on how the market evolves.

What is clear is that Madrid cannot afford to stand still in defence – especially with the club’s focus on remaining competitive at both domestic and European levels.