Reports: Real Madrid prioritising summer move for William Saliba

Real Madrid Targeting Summer Move for William Saliba

Published 20 hours ago on February 11, 2025 By ENOCH

Real Madrid are planning a major overhaul of their defense during the summer, with Arsenal’s William Saliba emerging as their top priority. The Spanish club is preparing to make a significant investment in their defensive line, and Saliba, considered one of the top young defenders globally, is their number one target.

Since making his way into Arsenal’s first team in 2022, Saliba has become a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s defensive setup. His partnership with Gabriel Magalhães has been crucial in Arsenal’s revival, making him a vital player at the club. However, Real Madrid’s interest could present a major challenge for Arsenal, as the Spanish giants are well-known for their ability to attract top talent.

Saliba’s rise to prominence was rapid but not without hurdles. Arsenal initially loaned him out several times to gain experience in Ligue 1 before finally offering him a starting role. Once integrated into the team, he quickly became a fan favorite and a defensive leader. His performances have been so reliable that he is now regarded as one of Europe’s finest centre-backs.

Real Madrid’s need for defensive reinforcements has grown due to their current injury crisis. Eder Militão has suffered two ACL injuries, while both David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger are in their 30s. With the club looking to establish long-term defensive stability, Saliba appears to be an ideal solution.

However, acquiring the Frenchman will not be an easy task. Arsenal are in a strong financial position and have no intention of letting him go at a low price. Reports suggest that any potential deal would require a record-breaking fee for a defender, surpassing the £77 million Manchester United paid for Harry Maguire.

Saliba’s contract runs until 2027, further strengthening Arsenal’s position. The club is under no pressure to sell, and fans would undoubtedly be angered if the club entertained the idea of his departure. The Frenchman is considered a critical part of Arteta’s long-term plans, making a sale highly unlikely unless Madrid makes an astronomical offer.

Despite his overall excellence, Saliba has encountered some struggles this season. His recent encounter with Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak raised concerns, as the Swedish striker managed to overpower him in a way few have been able to. However, these isolated instances do little to diminish his standing as an elite defender.

Real Madrid’s interest in Saliba is not surprising, given their history of securing world-class talent. They have previously attracted top defenders such as Rüdiger and Alaba, both of whom joined as free agents. Securing Saliba, however, will require a different strategy, with Arsenal holding all the negotiating power.

Florentino Pérez, known for his bold transfer moves, may be willing to set records to acquire his target. The club’s defensive issues in high-pressure matches have made the signing of a top-quality centre-back a necessity. With the Champions League knockout rounds approaching, Madrid’s lack of defensive depth may be exposed once again.

Arsenal, on the other hand, are committed to maintaining their competitiveness in both the Premier League and Champions League. Selling Saliba would significantly weaken their defense, making such a move highly unlikely for Arteta. The club’s hierarchy is expected to reject any offers from Madrid unless they are truly irresistible.

Arsenal fans have already expressed concerns over the rumors. During the club’s recent training camp in Dubai, a supporter urged Saliba not to leave for Madrid. The Frenchman responded with a laugh, providing a brief but reassuring answer. While his response suggests he is committed to Arsenal, transfer sagas are often unpredictable.

Madrid’s allure, with its history, prestige, and financial power, means this story is far from concluded. If they push hard enough and make an extraordinary offer, Arsenal may face a difficult decision. Saliba himself has not publicly expressed a desire to leave, but football is often full of surprises.

For now, Arsenal supporters can be reassured that their star defender remains committed to the club. However, as the summer transfer window approaches, rumors are expected to increase. Whether Real Madrid will make a major push for Saliba or turn their attention elsewhere remains to be seen.

If Arsenal manages to fend off Madrid’s interest, it will send a strong message of intent. Keeping their best players is essential to their ambitions of challenging for major titles. However, if Madrid presents an offer too good to reject, Arsenal may need to develop a backup plan.

One thing is for sure—this transfer saga is just beginning, and the battle for Saliba’s signature could become one of the defining stories of the upcoming summer window.