Real Madrid have ruled out a move for Arsenal centre-back William Saliba after learning their exorbitant asking price, per Defensa Central.
The 23-year-old has developed himself into one of the world’s best defenders after reporting back to the club from his multiple loan spells in Ligue 1. Mikel Arteta was impressed by his strong leadership qualities at the back and immediately convinced the club to offer him a new contract last summer.
Saliba boasts incredible statistics this season, with his team losing just once in 10 games. He had a bad day on the field against Bournemouth yesterday as he received a red card for his foul on Evanilson.
But that was a rare sight, with the French ace being a physical unicorn with his strong build and excellent defensive awareness for the Gunners.
Arsenal unconcerned by Madrid’s interest in Saliba
Madrid have been monitoring the former St. Etienne star for the past year and have made their interest known this season. Even Antonio Rudiger admitted that he is a fan of Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhaes-Saliba pair.
The Los Blancos are dealing with a serious injury concern with several of their key centre-backs struggling in the treatment room.
Fans aren’t happy with David Alaba and Eder Militao’s persistent fall off, and they want the club to get a player who is a more consistent, long-term successor at the back.
However, as per sources, they have now cooled their interest in Saliba due to his €80 million price tag. The Spanish giants are not in favour of splashing such huge fees, even if the player is worth that sum. They could now switch their focus to Tottenh*m Hotsp*r defender Cristian Romero in the 2025 summer.
Arsenal are reportedly unfazed by Madrid’s interest and are confident that the French international will extend his stay at the Emirates.
🚨Arsenal’s next two contract extensions are likely to be William Saliba and Gabriel.
The club are aware much of their recent success has been down to their partnership at the back.
Mikel Arteta views William Saliba and Gabriel as a vital part of Arsenal’s long-term future. pic.twitter.com/dakpmhAfPj
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) October 18, 2024
We can proudly say that Saliba has been one of our best signings in the post-Arsene Wenger era. The star defender was signed for just £27m in 2019, and this is proving to be the bargain of the decade for the Gunners.
They just need to convince their prized asset to commit himself to the club. A great team always protects its best players, and they have work to be done here.
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Arteta’s team also needs to win trophies after going empty-handed in the past two seasons. The French centre-back’s long-term presence in the starting XI is a huge boost to their future aspirations.
