Arsenal’s priority to retain William Saliba is intensifying as Real Madrid’s interest in the French centre-back grows. Madrid is in search of defensive reinforcements following a season plagued by injuries, and Saliba tops their list of potential signings. His impressive performances have made him an indispensable part of Arsenal’s backline, and his departure would deal a major blow to the team’s defensive stability. With his contract running until 2027, Arsenal appears determined to safeguard their investment, but the prospect of a move to a club of Madrid’s stature could pose a challenging temptation for Saliba.
According to Le10 Sport, Arsenal is not waiting for the situation to escalate. They have contacted Saliba’s representatives to explore an early contract extension, showing their commitment to keeping him at the club long-term. Arsenal remains optimistic about his willingness to stay, especially given his key role under Mikel Arteta. However, the report notes that there is some concern that, should Arsenal struggle to secure trophies, Saliba might consider his options.
Saliba has been a standout performer, and Arsenal recognises that replacing him would be financially and tactically challenging. Securing his future is not only about defensive stability but also about sustaining the team’s broader ambitions. He has become an essential element in Arteta’s system, combining solid defensive skills with an ability to contribute to Arsenal’s build-up play, which would be difficult to replicate in another signing.
As Arsenal continues negotiations, the club will need to offer not just a competitive financial package but also a clear vision for success. For Saliba, a long-term commitment to Arsenal could hinge on the club’s trajectory in domestic and European competitions. Arsenal’s efforts to extend Saliba’s contract reflect their awareness of his value and their belief in his role in their long-term goals. Retaining him is critical, and Arsenal fans will be eager to see the club take the necessary steps to ensure he remains at the heart of their defence for years to come.
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It’s down to Saliba. He’ll have to agree to a contract extension. If Arsenal really are looking to extend his contract at this stage, then the interest (at whatever level) from RM must be worrying them.
If I was Saliba or his agent, I’d just wait and see how things develop both at Arsenal, particularly this season, and what “signals” there are, if any, coming from the Bernabéu. He has a few years to do that.
If we can get a massive fee for him (£100 million plus) then I wouldn’t lose too much sleep. As long as we get an adequate replacement and continue invest in the team then I don’t see that much of a problem with any player leaving us for so callee “Greener Pasture”.
In my opinion a competent manager is much more important than individual players. We can always replace individual players but finding the right manager is difficult.
All the best teams sell players for silly money if offered so they can pay to develop their squad..
Admin Pat can you give me some examples of Barca, Real Madrid or Man City selling any of their best players in their prime in the last 5 years?
Man City sold Julian Alvarez and Cole Palmer in the last 2 summers
These players weren’t considered their best players. Alvarez although he played a lot was second choice hence why he left and cole palmer was deemed surplus to requirements so these dont count or support your argument
Madrid is a completely unique / different type of club compared to any other. I don’t care if you are Man United, City, PSG, Bayern, Arsenal, Milan, Juvenile etc. if Madrid want any given player from those club the chances are that they are guaranteed to get that player.
Man United – C. Ronaldo.
PSG – Mbappe etc..
Barcelona up until recently had the same pull for any player.
No need for self denials here. In most cases if Madrid want a player they are guaranteed with a high level of certainty to get that player from any other club apart from may be Barcelona. If they want Saliba and he is open to it then they will get him even if we don’t want to believe it..
We just need to squeeze as much money from them as we can..
This is true in some cases but not all. De Bruyne, Salah, Allison, VD are all examples of world class players that havent left and would easily have got in said teams so I think the denial may be on your part chap.
Pats point was that all teams sell their best players which just isnt true at all. It is in some cases but not all.
With that being said I would say that to keep Saliba we need to be at a minimum competing or winning leagues and champs leagues which doesnt seem likely atm.
City sold Jesu to us for £45mill, then turned around and bought Alvarez for £18mill only to sell him for what £82mill. That would be a reason to sell besides being a best player. Watch us loose Saliba to Real for a boatload of money.
If Madrid want him and he wants to go not much we can do besides take the most money we can squeeze out of them .
They always want the best ,and he is the best in the PL in his position bar none .
ZIP, Naught as a matter of fact I believe Vinni has a $1 Billion release clause.
From Le10 Sport:
“The Saliba case is being considered by Madrid as the winter transfer window approaches, where Real intends to recruit a new central defender.”
With a requirement for Arsenal to secure trophies and a clear vision for success, judging by the past 5 years it looks like we are royally f…!