William Saliba: Real Madrid Given Hope in Arsenal Transfer Battle

Spanish Giants Keep Tabs on Arsenal’s Defensive Pillar as Long-Term Plans Take Shape

In the ever-evolving theatre of modern football, where transfer rumours often burn out as quickly as they spark, some stories linger for good reason. The case of William Saliba and Real Madrid is one such example.

For the better part of two years, whispers out of Spain and France have linked the French centre-back with a potential move to the Bernabéu. While those murmurs have rarely felt imminent, recent developments have offered a sliver of possibility to Madridistas dreaming of seeing William Saliba marshal their backline.

According to a fresh report from L’Équipe, a publication deeply embedded in French football circles, Real Madrid have identified William Saliba as a top defensive priority, and the idea of a transfer—once viewed as wildly optimistic—is now considered “feasible, but very difficult.”

Arsenal’s Tower of Strength: How William Saliba Rose to the Top

Saliba helped Arsenal beat Real Madrid this season / Angel Martinez/GettyImages

When William Saliba finally broke into Arsenal’s first team in 2022, after a winding road of loan spells and questions over his readiness, few could have predicted just how rapidly he’d assert himself. In just a few short months, the composed and athletic centre-back transformed the Gunners’ defensive fortunes.

His absence in the closing stretch of the 2022/23 season—due to a back injury—was arguably the pivotal turning point that cost Mikel Arteta’s side their first Premier League title since 2004. Without William Saliba’s authority at the back, Arsenal crumbled under the weight of pressure, conceding goals they simply wouldn’t have with him on the pitch.

Now, aged just 24, William Saliba is widely regarded as one of the finest defenders in world football. Comfortable in possession, dominant in duels, and ice-cool under pressure, he is the archetype of the modern centre-half. Understandably, that kind of profile doesn’t go unnoticed in Madrid.

Real Madrid’s Defensive Puzzle: Injuries and Long-Term Planning

Despite their galáctico image, Real Madrid haven’t spent big on centre-backs in recent years. In fact, over the past decade and a half, their approach has been surprisingly measured in that department—relying on seasoned veterans and nurturing internal development.

But the 2024/25 season has exposed the fragility of that strategy. Injuries to Éder Militão, David Alaba, and Antonio Rüdiger have left Carlo Ancelotti scrambling for solutions. Even utility players like Aurélien Tchouaméni have been dropped into centre-back in a pinch.

The club’s failure to secure Leny Yoro—after Manchester United swooped in with a bigger bid to Lille—only amplified the urgency. Though Madrid retain interest in other French defenders like Ibrahima Konaté and Castello Lukeba, sources suggest that William Saliba is now seen as the crown jewel of their defensive wishlist.

A move this summer feels unlikely. But looking ahead to 2025 or 2026, Real Madrid could well make their move.

“Feasible but Very Difficult”: The Financial and Emotional Roadblocks

Let’s make one thing clear: signing William Saliba won’t come cheap. Arsenal know what they have, and they’re in no rush to sell. The Frenchman’s current contract runs until 2027, meaning that, unlike with many top targets, Madrid can’t simply wait for his deal to expire.

And yet, William Saliba hasn’t signed a long-term extension—at least not yet. That alone gives Madrid hope.

Despite their stature, Real Madrid do not operate with an unlimited transfer budget, especially when you factor in recent (and potential) spending on other big names—Jude Bellingham, Endrick, and the anticipated free transfer of Kylian Mbappé.

It’s a balancing act. But the idea of William Saliba—fluent in Spanish, close friends with Mbappé, and perfectly suited to Madrid’s style—fits the club’s long-term vision.

Mbappé Factor: A Familiar Face in White

Reports suggest that Mbappé and William Saliba share a strong bond, built through years of service together in the French national team setup. For Madrid, the presence of their new superstar might be one of the most powerful, if unofficial, weapons in this pursuit.

As seen with other signings, players are often swayed not just by salary or playing time, but by the chance to build dynasties alongside their peers. Could the idea of forming the heart of Madrid’s future—alongside his friend and fellow countryman—tempt William Saliba?

L’Équipe seems to think so, stating that Real Madrid are “the only club” that could lure him away from north London. Not PSG. Not Bayern. Not even Barcelona.

Arsenal’s Stance: No Conflict, But No Guarantees

For Arsenal, the concern isn’t immediate—but it is looming. As William Saliba enters the final two years of his current contract, the scenario begins to resemble other recent Premier League sagas, including Trent Alexander-Arnold’s shocking free transfer exit from Liverpool.

The Gunners are believed to have offered William Saliba a new contract, and all indications are that he’s still happy in London. His camp has reportedly made it clear that any exit would be respectful, never acrimonious. That’s good news for Arsenal—but not a guarantee.

As the calendar flips toward 2026, if a new deal isn’t in place, the north London club may be forced into a tough decision: cash in or risk losing one of their most valuable assets for nothing.

What Comes Next: Madrid’s Quiet Chess Game

This transfer, if it ever happens, won’t be done in headlines. Real Madrid are known for moving strategically, often waiting until circumstances align before making their move. It’s how they landed Toni Kroos. It’s how they timed their pursuit of Bellingham. And it’s likely how they’ll approach William Saliba.

In the meantime, Madrid may plug the gaps with short-term solutions, keeping their powder dry for a 2025 or 2026 push. Arsenal, on the other hand, will likely continue pushing to extend William Saliba’s stay—and may even build their next title challenge around him.

The battle lines are drawn. For now, it’s just a whisper. But it could soon become a war of patience, influence, and ambition between two of the biggest clubs in world football.

Final Thoughts: A Future Still Unwritten

Whether William Saliba becomes Real Madrid’s next defensive leader remains uncertain. What is clear is that the interest is real, and the foundation has been laid.

Madrid’s admiration is long-standing. William Saliba’s potential availability is slowly drifting into view. And the footballing world will be watching closely.

If the stars align, the Frenchman may one day find himself at the Bernabéu—anchoring the defence alongside a familiar face and chasing Champions League glory under the brightest lights.

Until then, Arsenal must act decisively—or risk losing their rock at the back to a club that has made a habit of turning dreams into reality.