Arsenal are preparing for the possible departure of France defender of Cameroonian descent William Saliba.
The English Premier League club has identified Ivorian defender Ousmane Diomande as a potential replacement for Saliba, who has been linked with a summer departure to Real Madrid.
Sources close to the club have indicated that the Gunners want to do everything to stop the centre-back from signing for Real Madrid.
This comes after reports indicated that the Spanish giants are already in contact with Saliba’s representative over the possibility of joining the team.
In a response, Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has commenced talks to extend William Saliba’s contract.
The London-based club regards Saliba as a key asset to the team and does not want to lose him at the moment.
The highly-rated defender is currently under contract with Arsenal until June 2027.
Arsenal now want to extend the deal to 2030, as part of efforts to ward off any interest.
Despite this, Arsenal are aware it is likely Saliba will leave this summer. As a result the club is keeping an eye on Diomande and will sign him to replace Saliba if he joins Real Madrid.
