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Real Madrid target Arsenal’s “Bellingham of defenders”
Real Madrid are ready to go all out to land Arsenal defender William Saliba this summer, according to multiple reports. French outlet L’Equipe reported that Real Madrid have been in contact with the player’s representative for weeks, and that the club would be willing to prepare a massive outlay to land the Frenchman who is now their top target.
These claims were supported by Fabrizio Romano who said on his youtube channel: “remember this sentence, someone internally at Real Madrid inner management believes William Saliba is the Bellingham of the defenders.”
“That is the feeling they have at Real Madrid. They consider William Saliba a game changer, a generational centre back. So if Madrid ever get an open door to negotiate for Saliba they will be ready.”
Saliba has enjoyed a meteoric rise since joining Arsenal from St-Etienne in 2019 for £27 million. After three consecutive loan spells, he broke into the first team in 2022 and has been a stalwart in the Arsenal defence ever since.
Known for his physical presence, calm demeanor, and pace in recovery, Saliba’s stock has risen tremendously over the years. He is widely regarded as one the best centre backs in the world. Romano reiterated that the interest is not yet firm from Madrid and that the player is not pushing for a move away from Arsenal.
Madrid want Saliba to lead the line
Real Madrid are looking to rebuild their squad and see Saliba as the future leader of the defence. Los Blancos has suffered with injuries this season, with David Alaba and Eder Militao both missing long stretches of the campaign. The 24 year old is seen as a long term anchor for the backline.
Saliba’s current deal at Arsenal is due to expire in 2027 and this summer is seen as Arsenal’s last summer to tie the player down to a long term extension. The player has expressed his happiness with the club and life in London and is said to be in favor of a stay should the club prove they can challenge for major honours.
Contract talks are said to continue over the summer with the player said to be seeking reassurance of the club’s ambitions. Saliba is set to be offered an improved wage package to bring him level to the club’s highest earners, with Arsenal keen to keep hold of one of their prized assets.
Arsenal’s summer transfer business will likely play a big role in demonstrating the club’s ambition, with big money links to several star names already making the rounds. Saliba may want to see what the club has planned before making a decision to commit his long term future to the club.
Arsenal still have the chance to win major silverware this season, as they prepare to clash with PSG in the second leg of their Champions League semi final tie.
They will have to overcome a 1-0 deficit to reach the final, and should Arsenal secure Champions League glory it could go a long way to convincing Saliba that the grass isn’t always greener.
