La Liga champions Real Madrid have reportedly initiated discussions with the entourage of 23-year-old Arsenal defensive mainstay William Saliba.
According to a report by Spanish outlet SPORT, William Saliba is the subject of interest from Real Madrid. The reigning La Liga champions are scouring the market for a world-class centre-back heading into the 2025 summer transfer window. So, the Arsenal defensive mainstay has emerged as a target, with Los Blancos approaching the French defender’s entourage while receiving positive signals from the representatives.
The rise and rise of William Saliba
William Saliba has gone from strength to strength since establishing a foothold in the first-team squad at Arsenal. The Frenchman had to bide his time and make his name during three loan spells in his homeland before getting his opportunity at the Emirates. However, he has not looked back since returning to the North London club.
The 23-year-old has turned out over 100 times thus far for Arsenal while chipping in with seven goals and two assists. In addition, Saliba has established a foothold in his national squad, becoming a mainstay at the back for his club and country.
The French international has piqued the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe with his exploits for his club and country. Real Madrid will be one of his prospective suitors heading into the 2025 summer transfer window. However, turning the Arsenal defender’s head will be a tall order, as he has pledged his future to the Premier League outfit.
Will Real Madrid sign Saliba?
Real Madrid’s interest in William Saliba is understandable. The reigning La Liga champions are scouring the market for a centre-back ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window. David Alaba is on the wrong side of 30, and the Austrian international has struggled to return from a long-term knee injury.
In addition, Antonio Rudiger is on the wrong side of 30, while Eder Militao is recovering from a second long-term knee injury in as many seasons. So, Real Madrid should invest in a top-class centre-back next year, with Saliba emerging as a viable target for Los Blancos. The latest report has revealed that the Merengues have contacted the Frenchman’s entourage to sound them out over a move.
The Arsenal defender’s representatives have given a positive response to Real Madrid, and Los Blancos might launch a bid worth €100 million to tempt the North London club to part ways with the 23-year-old French international. However, with Arsenal relaxed on Saliba’s future, a deal will require a lot of convincing.
