Real Madrid president returns from London after Arsenal loss with clear transfer mission | OneFootball

Real Madrid may have suffered a humbling 3-0 defeat at the hands of Arsenal at the Emirates, but for president Florentino Perez, the trip to London sparked more than just disappointment—it sparked a transfer obsession.

According to Fichajes, Perez returned to Madrid with one clear conviction: William Saliba must be signed to reinforce the defence.

While Arsenal dominated the quarter-final first leg and exposed the fragilities in Real Madrid’s current defensive setup, one player shone so brightly that he flipped the narrative for Los Blancos’ president.

Saliba, the commanding centre-back who marshalled the Gunners’ backline with poise, composure, and sheer authority, left a lasting impression. And now, Perez wants him to anchor the Madrid defence for years to come.

Real Madrid need a defender

Real Madrid are at a crossroads in their defensive department. David Alaba’s injury issues and Antonio Rudiger’s age mean the club must plan for the future.

They are in desperate need of a long-term solution who offers not only solidity but also the ability to play out from the back—crucial in Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical vision. In that sense, Saliba checks every box.

At just 24 years old, the Frenchman is already one of Europe’s most complete defenders. His strength, tactical intelligence, calmness under pressure, and precision in distribution have made him indispensable to Arsenal.

Florentino Perez likes William Saliba. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

His contract runs until 2027, and with his current market value hovering around €100 million, this won’t be an easy deal for Real Madrid to pull off.

Perez is fixated

Interestingly, when Florentino Perez becomes fixated on a player, history has shown that the wheels begin turning swiftly behind the scenes.

The blueprint is already being drawn up: Saliba is viewed as a defensive cornerstone for the next decade, a Galactico not of flair, but of steel and sophistication.

Madrid see him not only as a tactical necessity but as a statement signing—one that reinforces the club’s dominance at the back.

The challenge? Convincing Arsenal to part ways with one of their most vital assets. The Premier League side is building something formidable, and Saliba is central to their plans.

However, Real Madrid have the financial muscle and the prestige that often tilts transfer sagas in their favour.