Arsenal take firm stance on the future of €80 million-rated Real Madrid key target

As has already been reported, Real Madrid intend to go after a top centre-back in the summer transfer window of 2025.

The Merengues’ lack of depth in the defensive department has been exposed for a second season in a row and reinforcements are a must.

While there has been talk of a January signing, it seems like Real Madrid will wait until the summer to bring in a new face, and all signs point towards Arsenal and France star Williams Saliba being their preferred target.

Indeed, reports suggest that the Spanish and European champions have made the young Frenchman their absolute priority to reinforce the defence and have also been on scouting missions to watch him.

Arsenal unwilling to sell

However, despite Real Madrid’s strong interest in Saliba, it appears unlikely that Arsenal will entertain the idea of selling their ace defender.

Indeed, according to reports in England, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo, the Gunners are not considering the prospect of letting Saliba leave whatsoever, given that they have him tied down to a long-term contract until 2027.

As such, Arsenal have no intentions of sitting down with Real Madrid or any other club, such as PSG, who hold an interest in the French international. Their stance on the matter is clear – Saliba is not for sale.

The report further adds that Saliba himself is not looking to leave Arsenal despite Real Madrid’s interest in acquiring his services.

Given the circumstances, as things stand, it appears extremely difficult for Carlo Ancelotti’s side to secure the services of the Ballon d’Or nominee come summer 2025.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.