Real Madrid have long been analyzing options to strengthen their defense, and one of the names that is generating the most interest at Valdebebas is William Saliba, the current Arsenal center-back.
However, the chances of the Madrid team securing his services are becoming increasingly difficult. The London club are determined to secure the player with a high-level renewal, preventing Real Madrid's interest from turning into a real transfer.
The English club, aware of Saliba's importance in their scheme, have presented an improved proposal that includes a significant salary increase and clauses that strengthen his role as a key player, both in the present and in the future of the team. It is reported that Arsenal do not want to reach the summer of 2026 with the player entering the final year of his contract, which is why the operation has been accelerated.
According to EstadioDeportivo, the Santiago Bernabéu are keeping a close eye on the situation, knowing that significant changes could be made to the defence at the end of the season. The possible departure of players such as Rüdiger or Alaba opens the door for new reinforcements, but the obstacle created by Saliba's contract renewal with Arsenal makes any move very difficult. At 24, the French international is already considered a guarantee for Didier Deschamps in the national team and one of the most solid centre-backs in the Premier League.
Real Madrid's fears are clear: if the renewal is confirmed, Saliba will be tied until 2027, making any attempt to sign him for free or at a reduced price impossible. As a result, the Madrid side will have to consider other options, such as Ibrahima Konaté, who is also on their radar for the upcoming transfer window.
Arsenal's project under Mikel Arteta continues to consolidate, and they are not willing to lose one of their strategic pieces. The London team believes that Saliba is an irreplaceable pillar to maintain competitiveness in both the English championship and in Europe, making it clear that they will not negotiate with any interested club.
Meanwhile, Madrid are exploring several options. The club's board, led by Florentino Pérez, understand that the future of the defence requires a mix of young talent and experience. However, the signs are that Real Madrid will have to forget about Saliba if, as it seems, Arsenal manage to finalise his renewal.
Arsenal's move is a clear strategy: securing their main centre-back and, at the same time, sending a direct message to Real Madrid. The transfer dream of Madrid fans could become an impossibility, at least in the short term./Express newspaper/
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