Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has insisted he is “confident” that William Saliba will remain at the club despite being linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Los Blancos are keen to strengthen their backline this summer after seeing injuries expose a lack of depth in central defence.
Real Madrid are also wary that Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba are both in their 30s, with the club on the lookout for defenders who could be a part of the squad for the long term.
Saliba is among those who have been mentioned as a possible target for Real Madrid ahead of the summer transfer window.
Earlier this week, Marca reported that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is ready to go all out to sign the France international.
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Arteta “confident” over Saliba transfer stance
While Real Madrid are keen to secure Saliba’s signature, Arteta has expressed his confidence that the centre-back will remain at the Emirates Stadium beyond the end of the upcoming transfer window.
“I leave those kind of things more for Andrea Berta (sporting director) and the club to talk about,” Arteta told reporters ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth.
“What I’m certain about because I have the conversation with him is that he’s so happy here, he wants to continue with us.
“What will happen in the future always is with negotiations something that takes time and process, and to be on top of them.
“But I am confident William is very happy here and that’s the place he wants to be.”
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Saliba’s importance to Arsenal
Arsenal will certainly be determined to retain Saliba’s services, considering he has established himself as one of the key members of Arteta’s side over the past three seasons.
The 24-year-old has formed one of the Premier League’s strongest central defensive partnerships with Gabriel Magalhaes.
Saliba has featured in 47 games across all competitions this term, including 10 appearances in the Champions League, helping the Gunners reach the semi-final stage for the first time since 2008-09.
Arsenal are currently under no pressure to sell the French defender, with his contract set to run until the summer of 2027.
However, they may have to change their stance next summer unless they are able to agree a new contract with one of their most prized assets.
