As Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to make a move to Real Madrid, it seems like Real Madrid have now diverted their attention towards signing William Saliba.
Real Madrid are hoping Saliba declines a contract so that can sign him on a bargain fee — with Alexander-Arnold and Kylian Mbappe’s deals showing that they are willing to even wait to sign their targets on free transfers.
However, as Arsenal are in the pursuit of winning major silverware, it would be a blow to their project if they lose one of their big-hitters.
William Saliba is one of the Gunners’ most important players and in his absence, Mikel Arteta’s side tend to struggle as was demonstrated during the backend of the 2022/2023 season when Manchester City beat them to the Premier League title.
But Real Madrid compare Saliba to Jude Bellingham in terms of centre-backs and as a result, they are keen to snap him up as chief scout Juni Calafat seems to be building a team for the future.
Real Madrid can’t sign William Saliba because he’s too expensive
Saliba could sign a new contract but when Los Blancos come calling, it is difficult for most players to turn their backs on their approach.
Furthermore, Antonio Rudiger would like to play with Saliba as he hinted that Real Madrid could make a move for him one day.
However, there is good news for Arsenal in their quest to keep hold of the Frenchman.
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Real Madrid, who consider Saliba as their “dream target” cannot sign him this summer due to him being “too expensive.”
Perhaps a major reason behind the Spanish giants’ stance is Andrea Berta’s work behind the scenes — with Dean Huijsen and Ibrahima Konate on their shortlist.
What Andrea Berta has done to keep William Saliba at Arsenal
Berta noticed Real Madrid’s ploy to sign Saliba was to “plant the seed” in his mind by keeping in touch with him and eventually signing him for a snip from Arsenal.
As a result, the Italian sporting director has stepped up talks to extend the 24-year-old’s contract and it seems like Los Merengues have decided that now is not the time to try and prise him away.
