Report: Arsenal Star on Real Madrid’s Summer 2025 Wish List | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s Next Target: William Saliba

As Real Madrid enjoy the much-anticipated arrival of Kylian Mbappé, reports suggest that the Spanish giants have already set their sights on another French talent, Arsenal’s William Saliba. According to Le 10 Sport, the 22-year-old defender has emerged as Madrid’s priority for the 2025 summer transfer window. With Saliba’s rising status at Arsenal, a potential move to Spain raises intriguing questions about Madrid’s ambition, Arsenal’s resilience, and the evolving dynamics of European football.

Real Madrid’s French Connection

Following the acquisition of Mbappé, it’s apparent that Real Madrid has a soft spot for French players. They see French talent as a critical component of their squad rejuvenation strategy. With Saliba now firmly on their radar, Madrid is reportedly keen to solidify their defensive options with someone who “ticks all the boxes.” The club has already reached out to Saliba’s representatives, marking their initial steps towards an ambitious transfer plan. Madrid’s approach could test Arsenal’s resolve, especially given Saliba’s integral role in Mikel Arteta’s defensive lineup.

Madrid’s desire to strengthen their defence is not surprising. With recent departures and ageing players at the back, they’re looking for a cornerstone defender who can add stability and flair to their backline. Saliba, renowned for his composure, tackling, and ability to read the game, fits the profile perfectly. As Le 10 Sport puts it, Saliba is currently “living a dream” at Arsenal, a club where he has rapidly become indispensable. However, the lure of Madrid is a unique opportunity, particularly for a player of his calibre.

2025: A Big Summer Ahead for Arsenal and Saliba

Madrid’s apparent target is the 2025 summer transfer window, which gives Arsenal time to prepare. For Arteta, losing Saliba would be a significant setback, as the Frenchman has become a vital cog in Arsenal’s defensive machine. His departure would undoubtedly create a sizeable void, one that would be challenging to fill, especially as the club aims to establish itself among Europe’s elite once again.

While Arteta and Arsenal fans may hope to retain Saliba, Madrid’s financial might could make this a difficult stance to maintain. The Spanish club is no stranger to high-stakes transfers, and should they decide to splurge on Saliba, it could be an offer too substantial for Arsenal to ignore.

Will Arsenal Bow to Financial Pressure?

The question remains: Can Arsenal withstand Real Madrid’s pressure, or will they ultimately succumb to the lure of a substantial transfer fee? Madrid has shown time and time again that they are prepared to break the bank for players they believe will shape their future. And with Saliba’s stock rising, the Frenchman could represent the next major piece in Madrid’s long-term plans.

For Arsenal, this potential transfer represents more than just a defensive reshuffle. It’s a test of their ambition and their willingness to retain top talents in the face of lucrative offers from European giants. Will they fight to keep Saliba in North London, or will they cash in and look for a replacement?

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index

For Arsenal fans, news of Real Madrid’s interest in Saliba might seem unsettling, yet hardly surprising. Since joining the Gunners, Saliba has showcased maturity and skill that make him irreplaceable. However, the idea that Arsenal might lose another top player to a European heavyweight has echoes of a painful past. If Real Madrid come knocking with a substantial offer, it will test the club’s long-term ambitions and their willingness to hold onto cornerstone players.

Arsenal are no longer just a club competing for domestic glory; they aim to challenge the European elite. For that to happen, retaining players like Saliba is crucial. The board must resist the temptation of a quick financial windfall and instead focus on building a squad capable of contending for the Premier League title and making a deep Champions League run.

While financial pragmatism has its place, letting Saliba go would signal a lack of intent. If Arsenal truly want to be taken seriously in European football, they must be prepared to reject Madrid’s overtures and show Saliba—and the fans—that he belongs in North London. The club should consider tying him to an extended contract, reaffirming that they intend to keep their most valuable assets. Only then can Arsenal prove they are here to compete at the highest level.