Saliba Linked with Blockbuster Move to Real Madrid
Real Madrid have identified William Saliba as their top defensive target for the upcoming summer transfer window, according to reports from France. The Spanish giants are preparing a record-breaking bid to lure the Arsenal centre-back to the Santiago Bernabeu, a move that could make him the most expensive defender in football history.
With defensive reinforcements a priority for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, Madrid are prepared to go all out to secure Saliba’s signature. However, Arsenal are determined to fight to keep hold of the French international, and any potential transfer will likely require an astronomical fee.
Real Madrid’s Defensive Emergency: Why Saliba is the Priority
Defensive injuries have plagued Real Madrid in recent seasons. Eder Militao has suffered his second ACL injury in as many campaigns, while David Alaba‘s return to the sidelines after missing over a year with his own knee issue has left Los Blancos short at the back.
The impending summer release of Jesus Vallejo will further deplete Madrid’s defensive options, leaving only Antonio Rudiger, Militao, and Alaba as senior centre-backs. Given these issues, it is no surprise that Madrid have prioritized defensive reinforcements, with William Saliba emerging as the absolute priority for the club.
Madrid have been linked with Saliba in the past, as have Paris Saint-Germain, but Arsenal have never entertained the idea of selling him. With his contract running until 2027, the Gunners hold all the power in negotiations and are expected to stand firm against Madrid’s interest.
Record-Breaking Transfer? Arsenal’s Stance on Saliba
Arsenal are expected to demand a record-breaking fee if they are to consider parting ways with William Saliba. The current record transfer fee for a defender stands at £80m, which Manchester United paid for Harry Maguire in 2019. However, given Saliba’s talent, age, and contract length, any potential move to Real Madrid is likely to exceed that figure significantly.
Madrid are aware that Arsenal will not let their star defender leave easily, and they are expected to be prepared to break the bank to secure the highly-rated centre-back.
Antonio Rudiger’s Praise for Saliba
Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger has openly praised William Saliba, describing him as one of the best defenders in the world. The German international has even hinted at his desire to play alongside the Frenchman in the future, adding fuel to speculation that Madrid are serious about their pursuit.
“Saliba is one of the best centre-backs in world football,” Rudiger said in a recent interview. “He has everything you need in a modern defender—strength, composure, and intelligence. Of course, I would love to play alongside him.”
With Madrid’s interest growing, Arsenal will have to work hard to convince Saliba to stay, ensuring that they can continue building a team capable of competing for the Premier League title and Champions League glory.
Why Arsenal Want to Keep Saliba
1. Defensive Stability & Future Leadership
Saliba has established himself as one of Arsenal’s most crucial players, forming a solid defensive partnership with Gabriel Magalhães. At just 22 years old, he is seen as a future leader in the squad and a player that Arsenal want to build their defence around for years to come.
2. Title Ambitions & Champions League Aspirations
Arsenal are contenders for the Premier League title and will be looking to compete at the highest level in Europe. Losing a key player like Saliba would be a massive setback to Mikel Arteta’s long-term project, and the club is expected to do everything possible to keep hold of him.
3. Strong Contract Position
With three years left on his contract, Arsenal are in no rush to sell. If Madrid are truly determined to sign Saliba, they will need to convince Arsenal with an extraordinary bid—one that could potentially set a new world record for a defender.
What’s Next? Madrid’s Transfer Plans & Arsenal’s Response
Madrid are expected to test Arsenal’s resolve with an opening bid, but the Gunners will not make negotiations easy. If Arsenal reject Madrid’s initial approach, it remains to be seen whether the Spanish giants will continue their pursuit or turn their attention elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Arsenal will be focused on offering Saliba a new deal with improved terms to secure his future at the Emirates Stadium. If the Gunners can match Madrid’s financial incentives, they may have a strong chance of convincing him to stay in North London.
The William Saliba transfer saga is shaping up to be one of the biggest storylines of the summer transfer window. With Real Madrid’s defensive crisis, their determination to sign a top-tier centre-back, and their willingness to spend big, this could result in a record-breaking deal.
However, Arsenal remain in control of the situation and will only consider selling if Madrid meet their extraordinary valuation. Whether Saliba stays at Arsenal or moves to Real Madrid, one thing is certain—his future will be one of the most talked-about topics in world football over the coming months.
Will Madrid break the bank for Saliba? Or will Arsenal hold firm and keep one of their most valuable assets? The summer transfer window promises to be an intriguing battle between two European giants.
