Arsenal’s Saliba, a Real Madrid target, is hoping to sign a new contract with the Gunners
French defender expresses desire to remain at the Emirates amid transfer speculation
William Saliba, a key defensive pillar at Arsenal and a top target for Real Madrid, has revealed he hopes to sign a new contract with the Gunners soon, potentially ending speculation surrounding a move to Spain.
The 23-year-old centre-back, who has drawn admiration from Real Madrid’s scouting department, currently has a contract that runs until June 2027. However, Madrid were monitoring the player closely, believing a deal might be possible given his prior openness to a La Liga switch.
“God is Great. I Hope to Sign Soon,” Says Saliba
Speaking to AFTV Media, Saliba made his intentions clear:
“When will I sign my new contract? I hope soon. God is great. This year we’re going to try to win everything,” the French international said.
The quote comes as a blow to Real Madrid, whose board had reportedly shortlisted Saliba as a potential long-term replacement for Antonio Rüdiger or Éder Militão, especially as the club targets high-level players approaching the end of their deals or those potentially available through persuasion.
Real Madrid May Shift Focus Elsewhere
Reports from MARCA suggested Saliba had once considered making a financial sacrifice to join the Spanish giants, underlining how highly he rates Madrid. But the tide now appears to be turning in Arsenal’s favour, with renewal talks reportedly underway in North London.
A new contract would make any potential transfer far more difficult for Real Madrid likely requiring a significant transfer fee and convincing the player to depart a club where he has established himself as a leader.
Undisputed Starter for Mikel Arteta
Saliba was an integral part of Mikel Arteta’s squad in the 2024/25 campaign. The centre-back featured in 51 of the club’s 58 total matches, starting in 50 of them further emphasizing his value as a consistent and reliable defensive presence.
As Arsenal aim to challenge again in the Premier League and Champions League, tying down Saliba long-term would be viewed as a major victory for the club’s project under Arteta.
