Real Madrid are interested in Arsenal star William Saliba and reportedly would consider making a world record bid for a defender in the summer transfer window.
Real Madrid Ready To Table Huge Offer For Saliba
William Saliba is one of the best centre-backs in world football and his performances for Arsenal have alerted Real Madrid.
The Frenchman is only 23-years-old so has the potential to play at the highest level of football for many years to come.
According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Real Madrid have already sounded out the Arsenal star’s representatives and got a positive response.
To lure Saliba away from Arsenal, it’s said Madrid could have to pay at least £83m – a world record fee for a defender.
The current record held by a defender is Harry Maguire’s move to Manchester United in 2019 which cost £80m.
SPORT claim the idea is to persuade Saliba to request a transfer to help push a move over the line.
However, Arsenal might not be willing to part ways with their star defender who is under contract until 2027.
Saliba’s Arsenal Future
William Saliba has become an integral part of the Arsenal team, meaning Real Madrid might have to spend even more than £83m to get the Frenchman into the club.
Madrid are boosted by the fact they have a number of French players on-board already. Saliba knows Kylian Mbappe well after he was coached by the striker’s father, Wilfrid, as a youngster.
However, Saliba last month reaffirmed his loyalty to the Gunners.
The Frenchman said: “I feel at home here. I signed for the club five years ago but it’s only my third season. I’m enjoying everything — the players, staff and fans.”
Since breaking into the Arsenal team after loans at Saint-Ettiene, Nice and Marseille, he has made 107 appearances for the Gunners.
Arsenal finished second in the standings to Manchester City over the past two seasons. This season they are six points behind leaders Liverpool – who do have a game in hand.
