Arsenal are set to begin contract talks with William Saliba in an effort to secure the highly-rated defender amid growing interest from Real Madrid.
The Gunners are keen to lock down the 24-year-old, whose performances have made him one of the most sought-after center-backs in Europe, as they look to avoid losing another key player to the Spanish giants.
With the summer transfer window approaching, Arsenal are moving swiftly to keep Saliba at the Emirates.
Saliba, who has Cameroonian heritage, has become a critical part of Arsenal’s backline since breaking into the first team.
Known for his composure, strength, and ability to read the game, he has attracted attention from Real Madrid, who reportedly consider him a “dream target” for their defense.
However, the Spanish club faces a significant financial hurdle, as Saliba’s current market value is considerably higher than that of other center-back targets like Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen and Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently confirmed Madrid’s interest, noting that while Saliba is a top priority for the future, his high price tag makes an immediate move unlikely.
“Real Madrid have Dean Huijsen, William Saliba and Ibrahima Konaté on their shortlist for a new centre-back… Saliba, dream target for present/future but currently considered too expensive,” he said.
To prevent a potential transfer saga similar to the recent departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Madrid, Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, is reportedly working with manager Mikel Arteta to finalize a long-term deal for Saliba.
Berta, who joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid, understands the aggressive transfer tactics often employed by Los Blancos and is eager to avoid a repeat of recent history.
