Arsenal to offer William Saliba fresh contract amid Real Madrid interest

Arsenal have reportedly offered William Saliba a fresh five-year contract, in a bid to quash the keen interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid, according to Foot Mercato.

Madrid have been tracking the French international for years, from his time at Saint-Étienne through to his standout performances at Arsenal.

The 24-year-old’s contract at Emirates Stadium runs until 2027, and Madrid are reported to maintain a strong relationship with the French defender’s representatives.

In May, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta dismissed the rumours, emphasizing that the French centre-back remains “very happy” at the North London club.

Madrid are reportedly planning a move for Saliba in 2026, when he will have just 12 months remaining on his Arsenal contract, with intentions to pursue him as a free agent in 2027 if the initial bid fails.

Arsenal, under Arteta, are keen to secure Saliba’s future and have offered him a new contract to stay at the Emirates until 2030.

Reports indicate that “discussions are ongoing,” with the club optimistic about a positive response, though no agreement has been reached yet.

Madrid continues to closely monitor the situation, aiming to secure Saliba for the Bernabeu within the next two years.

Xabi Alonso’s side are focused on strengthening their squad with top market talents, viewing Saliba as an ideal successor or competitor to Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba, who are nearing the end of their careers at the Bernabeu.

Losing Saliba would be a disastrous setback for Arsenal, as he is widely regarded as one of the world’s best centre-backs.

Saliba has featured in 137 matches for Arsenal, playing a pivotal role in their Premier League title challenges over the past three seasons.

Meanwhile, the 15-time Champions League winners have revamped their backline with the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Alvaro Carreras this summer.