Arsenal are working hard to secure the long-term future of William Saliba amid ongoing interest from Real Madrid, who continue to view the Frenchman as their dream defensive signing.
Madrid’s long-standing admiration for William Saliba
The 24-year-old has been on Los Blancos’ radar for several seasons, with club officials privately acknowledging him as one of the best centre-backs in the world.
Already a fixture for both Arsenal and the French national team, Saliba’s mix of physical presence, composure, and leadership has made him a natural successor to the likes of Sergio Ramos in Madrid’s eyes.
While Real Madrid have broadened their shortlist to include players such as Ibrahima Konaté and Dayot Upamecano, they would still be willing to commit significant funds to bring Saliba to the Bernabéu should a window of opportunity open.
Arsenal’s counter-move
Mikel Arteta, however, has been clear that Saliba is non-negotiable in his project. According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have now presented the defender with an improved contract proposal, offering terms far more favourable than their previous attempts.
The Gunners are wary of entering the summer of 2026 with just one year left on his deal, which could place them under pressure to sell.
Securing a long-term extension remains one of their top priorities, as losing Saliba would be a devastating blow to the defensive structure Arteta has carefully built.
At present, his contract runs until 2027, but Arsenal want to extend well beyond that to shut the door firmly on Madrid’s interest.
The next step
For Real Madrid, the situation is a waiting game. Their recruitment team is monitoring developments closely, knowing that Saliba’s decision on Arsenal’s latest offer could dictate their next move.
If the Frenchman commits to a long-term deal, Madrid will be forced to look elsewhere.
This season, Saliba has already started Arsenal’s opening Premier League fixtures, underlining his importance to the squad.
However, he was forced off just minutes into the third game due to injury, which Arteta will hope proves to be a short-term setback.
What it means going forward
Arsenal’s ambition to keep Saliba underlines their intent to remain competitive at the very top of European football.
But with Real Madrid lurking and financial muscle never far away, the battle for his signature may ultimately hinge on the defender’s personal ambitions — whether he sees his long-term future in London or is tempted by the allure of the Bernabéu.
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