Arsenal Face Major Setback as Real Madrid Eyes William Saliba in Record-Breaking Transfer Move
Arsenal have been dealt a significant blow regarding the future of their defensive rock, William Saliba, as fresh reports suggest that one of Europe’s biggest clubs is preparing to make a move for the French international. The timing of this development couldn’t be worse for the Gunners, who are already reeling from their latest setback in domestic competition.
On Wednesday night, Arsenal suffered a bitter disappointment, crashing out of the Carabao Cup after a second consecutive 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United in the semi-finals. Over the course of the two-legged tie, Mikel Arteta’s side failed to find the back of the net across 180 minutes, a shortcoming that ultimately led to their elimination. While Arsenal’s attacking struggles were largely responsible for their downfall, much of the post-match discussion centered around Saliba, who faced criticism for his role in the team’s defensive lapses.
Despite this, Arsenal fans now have a new concern, as reports suggest that Spanish giants Real Madrid are eager to bring Saliba to the Santiago Bernabéu. According to French journalist Fabrice Hawkins, while Madrid remain uncertain about the long-term future of their attacking options, they have a clear vision for their defensive setup—and Saliba is at the heart of it.
Real Madrid’s Interest and Arsenal’s Stance
Saliba has become an indispensable figure at Arsenal, and the North London club views him as one of the best central defenders in world football. Given his immense importance to Arteta’s system, the Gunners are expected to put up a strong resistance to any attempts to lure him away. Reports indicate that Arsenal will only consider a transfer if an astronomical fee is offered—one that would break the all-time record for a defender. Currently, that record stands at £80 million (€97 million), set when Harry Maguire moved from Leicester City to Manchester United in the summer of 2019.
The 23-year-old Frenchman has been at Arsenal since 2019 but spent three years on loan in Ligue 1 before finally returning to establish himself as a key player in Arteta’s defensive setup. His influence on the team has been undeniable, with Arsenal struggling significantly when he was sidelined due to injury last season.
Arteta’s Early Impressions of Saliba
Saliba’s journey at Arsenal wasn’t always smooth. When he first returned to the club after his loan spell, Arteta took a hands-off approach, wanting to observe the young defender without immediate intervention.
“For the first week, I didn’t speak to him,” Arteta admitted in 2023 when reflecting on Saliba’s return to the Emirates.
“I just wanted to see—naturally, without me really interfering in his thoughts—how he was. Because then you can understand the real him.
“He had an immediate impact. The first two training sessions that we looked at home we went: ‘There’s huge potential here’.
“He took out every question mark that we could have with him and gave us all the reasons to play him. And I think he’s been exceptional since that day.”
What’s Next for Arsenal and Saliba?
With the transfer window looming, Arsenal now face a major challenge in keeping hold of their defensive star. If Real Madrid decide to push forward with a bid, they have the financial resources and global allure to test Arsenal’s resolve. However, the Gunners are determined to retain Saliba, who remains under contract and is viewed as a crucial figure in their long-term project under Arteta.
For now, Arsenal’s focus will be on recovering from their Carabao Cup disappointment and maintaining their Premier League and European ambitions. But with Madrid circling, speculation over Saliba’s future is likely to persist—making this one of the biggest transfer sagas to watch in the coming months.
William Saliba transfer bombshell drops from out of nowhere to add to Arsenal’s woes
