not looking to force a move away from Arsenal. Madrid is eager to secure a high-profile deal for the defender, whether this summer or in 2026.
Recognized as one of Europe’s top center-backs, Saliba is approaching the final two years of his Arsenal contract, sparking interest from several elite clubs across the continent.
Reports suggest that Los Blancos are the only side with a realistic chance of prying the French international away from north London.
Club president Florentino Perez is intent on signing Saliba, with Spanish sources claiming he views the 24-year-old as the long-term anchor of Madrid’s defense.
French outlet L’Equipe reports that Saliba remains in discussions with Arsenal’s hierarchy regarding a lucrative contract extension and has no plans to push for a move.
The report also notes that Arsenal must convince the defender that silverware is within reach at the Emirates Stadium, as new sporting director Andrea Berta is unwilling to entertain any offers from Madrid or other clubs.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid is expected to finalize a sensational free transfer for Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer. The England right-back is set to leave Liverpool as a Premier League champion when his contract expires.
While speculation continues, Saliba is unlikely to follow Alexander-Arnold to Madrid in this transfer window. Last week, Mikel Arteta reaffirmed that the center-back is happy at Arsenal.
The Spaniard said: “I leave those kind of things more for Andrea and the club to talk about.
“What I’m certain, because I had a conversation with him, that he’s so happy here, that he wants to continue with us, and what will happen in the future. Obviously it’s our negotiations and things that have to take time and process and be on top of them, but I’m quite confident that William is very happy here and that’s the place that he wants to be.”
Arsenal has fallen short in their pursuit of the Premier League title once again, and their recent slump in form means Champions League qualification is not yet guaranteed.
Their hopes of reaching the final in Europe also took a hit last week, as a 1-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain at home has left Mikel Arteta’s squad with a challenging second-leg showdown in Paris on Wednesday.
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