Real Madrid consider a move to the Santiago Bernabeu to be the destiny of Arsenal centre-back William Saliba, according to The Athletic.
The Gunners are aware of Madrid’s interest but remain confident they will be able to reach an agreement with the France international on a new contract.
Saliba has two years left on his current Arsenal deal, and the La Liga club are said to be staying close to him discreetly, preparing to sign him in 2026 for an affordable amount or in 2027 for free.
The North London club value the 24-year-old incredibly highly and have made him the highest-paid defender at the club, and while they are expected to hold on to him beyond the summer transfer window, they will be desperate to hand him an extension before he enters the last year of his contract.
Arsenal have all but missed out on the Premier League title to Liverpool but winning the Champions League this season will boost their chances of convincing Saliba to commit his future to the club.
The result of the game tonight could play a huge role in the decision of the Frenchman, and the Gunners will ensure they book a spot in the semi-finals of the elite European competition at the expense of Madrid having secured a comfortable 3-0 lead in the first-leg last week.
Saliba is not at the peak of his game yet but is already one of the best centre-backs in the world, and Arsenal have to hold on to him and ensure he signs a long-term contract as manager Mikel Arteta continues to build a formidable team capable of regularly winning major trophies for years to come.
