Real Madrid’s William Saliba Transfer Battle with Arsenal

Real Madrid’s Long-Term Interest in Arsenal’s William Saliba

Real Madrid is keeping a close eye on Arsenal’s young star William Saliba, with the defender remaining a long-term transfer target for the club. Despite concerns about the future of their defense, Real Madrid’s manager Carlo Ancelotti decided against making any new signings in January, opting to rely on the return of David Alaba to bolster the squad.

Interest in Saliba Amid Defensive Concerns

Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao are facing injury concerns, while Antonio Rudiger has been shouldering a heavy workload alongside rising star Raul Asencio. Ancelotti has long admired Saliba’s talent but is hesitant to engage in a bidding war with Arsenal, especially given their new rivalry.

Focus on Trent Alexander-Arnold

Real Madrid’s priority remains Liverpool’s right back Trent Alexander-Arnold, with efforts focused on securing his signature before exploring other options. The club is closely monitoring Saliba’s contract situation at Arsenal, as talks for a possible extension are planned with manager Mikel Arteta in the upcoming summer.

Future Prospects for Saliba

Saliba, valued at around €80m, has impressed with his performances for Arsenal, notably in their recent victory over Real Madrid. With Gabriel Magalhaes sidelined, Saliba’s role in the upcoming fixture on April 16 is crucial. While Arteta is keen on retaining the defender, Real Madrid’s interest could complicate matters if a contract extension is not agreed upon.

Real Madrid’s Strategy

Reports suggest that Real Madrid is considering different approaches, including a potential reduced offer to pressure Arsenal into selling Saliba next summer or waiting until 2027 to secure a free transfer, similar to their pursuit of Alexander-Arnold. The club’s emphasis on acquiring top talent while managing costs highlights their strategic approach to player acquisitions.