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According to a report from [**Marca**](https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2025/10/09/prioridad-real-madrid-central-coste-cero.html), Real Madrid are planning to recruit a new central defender during the next summer transfer window. In true Los Blancos fashion, the La Liga giants have compiled a three-man shortlist who all have contracts expiring at the end of the current season.
Liverpool centre back Ibrahima Konaté (26) has been linked with a potential switch to Real Madrid on a free transfer. However, two new names have been linked with a potential move to the Santiago Bernabéu. Another Frenchman whose contract is expiring at the end of the season and has emerged as a potential target for the record UEFA Champions League winners is Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano (26). Crystal Palace captain Marc Guéhi is the final name on the Spanish capital club’s shortlist.
#### Saliba evades Real Madrid’s grasp
The La Liga outfit were also planning a swoop for Arsenal’s William Saliba (24) on a free transfer when his contract expired in 2027. However, the France international has committed his future to the Gunners and extended his contract with the Premier League club until 2030.
[GFFN](http://getfootballnewsfrance.com) | Liam Wraith