Real Madrid are in talks with William Saliba’s camp over a transfer, according to a report, but the player has no intention to force a move away from Arsenal.
French outlet L’Equipe (via GFFN) report that Real Madrid are already in talks with William Saliba’s representatives over a potential transfer, with the Spanish side keen to sign a centre-back this summer and Saliba among their concrete targets.
L’Equipe claim Real Madrid are the only team that would appeal to Saliba, but he still has no intention to force a move away from Arsenal.
The Gunners have offered the defender a contract extension and made it clear they won’t sell, refusing to even set a price tag, but L’Equipe suggest that they need to prove to him it’s possible to win trophies in north London.
Given Arsenal’s reluctance to entertain any offers, L’Equipe suggest Real Madrid could opt to wait and sign Saliba when his contract expires. That’s what they did with David Alaba, Kylian Mbappe, and now Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Fabrizio Romano adds that Real Madrid are ready to negotiate a deal whenever the opportunity arises, whether that’s now or in the coming years.
But again, Mikel Arteta believes Saliba is happy where he is, and Arsenal intend to extend his contract.
Previous reports from The Athletic have suggested that an imminent move for Saliba to join Real Madrid is unlikely, with Arsenal’s asking price (if there is one) likely to price out even the Spanish giants.
Andrea Berta is expected to a work on a new deal for Saliba as one of his key early priorities, and the player is reportedly sending positive messages on that front. But Real Madrid are waiting.
Saliba has played 48 times for Arsenal this season, starting 47 of those matches.