‘William Saliba demand inevitable in Arsenal talks under Real Madrid threat’
William Saliba is expected to make a major request after Arsenal entered talks over a new deal under growing transfer pressure.
The centre-back has been an ever-present in Mikel Arteta’s side since the start of the 2022/23 season, and Football Insider revealed that Arsenal have now opened talks with Saliba about a new deal.
However, with the French international’s future still somewhat up in the air, Real Madrid are sniffing around sensing another free transfer coup.
Saliba played every single Premier League game for the Gunners last season, and has missed just two domestic matches this campaign.
Arsenal were dumped out of the Champions League by PSG, and are set to end another season without a trophy.
Saliba wants reflective deal
Saliba is widely regarded as one of the best centre-backs in world football currently, and has spent a good few years playing at the top level.
The Athletic’s (9 May) David Ornstein has reported that the Arsenal defender is seeking a deal which reflects his status as one of the best defenders around.
Ornstein also stated that Saliba is happy at the club, and despite the fact that an offer has not yet been made, it is expected that one will be tabled in due course.
The Frenchman’s current contract runs out in 2027, and with Real Madrid set to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free, Arsenal will be eager to ensure they don’t lose one of their top talents to Los Blancos.
Arsenal must keep ‘vital’ Saliba
Many believe that Arteta and Arsenal only have themselves to blame, after falling short in both the Premier League and Champions League this season.
It is expected that the Gunners will dip into the transfer market this summer, with a centre-forward the number one priority for the North London side.
| Name | Goals |
| Kai Havertz | 9 |
| Leandro Trossard | 8 |
| Gabriel Martinelli | 7 |
| Mikel Merino | 6 |
| Bukayo Saka | 6 |
However, it is just as important that Arsenal keep hold of their star players, with incoming talent fairly useless if there are any unwanted outgoings.
Saliba is absolutely vital to Arteta, and his partnership with Gabriel has been one of the reasons why Arsenal’s defensive record has been so good over the past few years.
All the problems for the Gunners seem to come at the other end of the pitch, as without a recognised number nine they have struggled to be clinical in tight games.
Despite this, keeping Saliba is just as important as bringing in more attacking strength so it seems unavoidable that he will need to be paid the big money he is looking for.