Real Madrid ready to negotiate a deal with Arsenal to sign William Saliba | OneFootball

According to Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid are ready to negotiate a deal to sign William Saliba (24) from Arsenal. The European champions view the France international defender as a unique prospect to bolster their defensive options and are prepared to negotiate a deal with Arsenal, whether that be now or in the future.

Saliba’s contract at the Emirates is set to expire in 2027. The Athletic understands that the La Liga outfit are planning to sign the former Saint-Étienne defender on a free transfer when his contract expires at the end of the 2026/27 season.  Romano reports Madrid views the 24-year-old as the ‘Jude Bellingham of defenders’.

A new contract at Arsenal?

Despite heavy interest from the Spanish club, the Gunners do not intend to let their prized defensive asset leave without a fight. Mikel Arteta believes that Saliba is happy in North London, and the Premier League club intend to offer him a new contract to extend his stay beyond 2027.

GFFN | Liam Wraith