Mikel Arteta's official response to the signing Xabi Alonso has requested: 'He will play at...'

Despite the signings made this summer, Xabi Alonso still has his sights set on strengthening Real Madrid's defensive line. We must not forget that this transfer window has brought in top-level players such as Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Álvaro Carreras. In addition, Militao, Alaba, and Carvajal are now fully recovered after their long injuries, so we can say that Madrid's defense for this season is practically new.

The changes have had an immediate effect. Real Madrid has conceded only two goals in the first four LaLiga matches, confirming the solidity Xabi Alonso was seeking.  The new signings have adapted wonderfully to the Basque coach's style and have raised internal competition to an unprecedented level in recent years, but Xabi wants more.

William Saliba, Xabi Alonso's Great Desire

On Xabi Alonso's list of priorities is the name of an established center-back, who stands out for his leadership and has experience at the highest level. We're talking about William Saliba, Arsenal defender and friend of Mbappé, which makes his possible arrival at Bernabéu even more attractive.

Xabi Alonso has already made his interest in William Saliba known to Florentino Pérez's office. He believes Saliba would fit perfectly into his system due to his physical strength and the security he provides as the last man. However, the main obstacle has a name and surname: Mikel Arteta.

Mikel Arteta Responds to Real Madrid's Interest in William Saliba

The Spanish coach has been blunt on this matter. For Mikel Arteta, William Saliba is untouchable and he doesn't even consider opening negotiations for him. Moreover, Arsenal is already working on his contract renewal, closing the door to a hypothetical transfer: Arteta knows Saliba won't leave Emirates.

Mikel Arteta's response has been a cold shower in Chamartín, where they were hoping to tempt Mbappé's friend. However, Arsenal's stance is clear: William Saliba is not for sale, and he won't be in the short term either.

Real Madrid's Plan B: Ibrahima Konaté

Given this scenario, Xabi Alonso will have to change his target. In this regard, all eyes are on Ibrahima Konaté, Liverpool center-back who has been on Florentino Pérez's radar for some time. The player, whose contract ends in 2026, has already rejected several renewal offers and would be delighted to wear the white jersey.

Ibrahima Konaté meets many of the requirements Xabi Alonso seeks in his defense: speed, strength, and authority. He also has the approval of the locker room, where several national teammates, such as Tchouaméni or Mbappé, have shown their desire to see him in Madrid. It's clear that Real Madrid won't stop in its efforts to strengthen a backline that, despite having improved significantly, can still reach a higher level.