Arsenal defender William Saliba has been linked with a summer move away from the North London club, with Real Madrid interested.
Real Madrid are keen on 24-year-old Arsenal defender William Saliba, and manager Mikel Arteta has now opened up on his situation. The Arsenal manager has ruled out any potential exit for the French international defender.
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, he revealed that he has a close relationship with the player, and the player is happy at Arsenal and wants to continue with them.
“I’m convinced because I’ve had a relationship with him. He’s very happy here and wants to continue with us. I’m sure he’s very happy here and that this is where he wants to be,” said the Arsenal manager.
The French defender has a contract with Arsenal until 2027, and Arsenal are under no pressure to sell him this summer. It is fair to assume that they will keep the player at the club beyond this summer.
Saliba would improve Real Madrid
William Saliba has established himself as one of the best defenders in the world, and he could prove to be an excellent acquisition for Real Madrid. The Spanish outfit have looked vulnerable defensively, and they need quality signings at the back. Saliba will certainly help them tighten up defensively.
The Frenchman could prove to be a major upgrade on someone like David Alaba, who has struggled with persistent injury problems. The Austrian is at the twilight stages of his career as well, and Saliba could be the ideal long-term replacement.
He could form a quality partnership with Eder Militao at the heart of the Real Madrid defence for the foreseeable future. It remains to be seen whether Los Blancos decide to test Arsenal’s resolve with an offer in the summer. It will not be easy to convince the North London club.
Arsenal do not need to sell their key players for money, and they will be hoping to build a formidable side and fight for major trophies. Losing the French defender would be a devastating blow for them, and it seems highly unlikely that they will sanction his departure anytime soon.
