This summer Real Madrid is looking for a center-back, and Arsenal’s William Saliba has apparently become their main target.
Following several loan periods, Mikel Arteta ultimately included Saliba into Arsenal’s first squad, therefore establishing himself as one of the finest in his position. Working with Gabriel Magalhães, he has been the backbone of Arsenal’s defense, greatly helping the squad to flourish.
Two seasons ago, Saliba’s absence from a back ailment notoriously threw Arsenal’s title challenge off course. He was always present last season as Arteta’s team battled furiously for the Premier League crown with Manchester City.
Saliba and his campaign
Saliba’s efforts this season have not been without criticism, notwithstanding his great potential. Being among the best defenders in the world magnifies any little error. Although he is still exceptional, this season his partner Gabriel has perhaps been more consistent of the two.
Possibly his weakest performance in an Arsenal shirt was his recent one against Alexander Isak in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg. Dominating their individual struggle, the Newcastle striker revealed vulnerabilities hardly seen in Saliba’s game.
The Defensive wishes of Real Madrid
Saliba interests Real Madrid make logical sense. While Eder Militão has endured two ACL injuries in consecutive seasons, Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba both over 30, and the Spanish giants have an aging defense. Carlo Ancelotti’s present injury crisis led him to call on teenager Raúl Asencio and midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni as center-backs in their Champions League game against Manchester City.
Madrid needs a long-term defensive answer, and Saliba exactly matches it. He is a perfect contender to anchor their backline for years to come because of his reputation for calm, smart, and physically strong demeanor.
Author’s opinion
Saliba is Madrid’s primary defensive target, hence signing him won’t be easy even if they give it top priority. Arsenal intends not to sell the 23-year-old; hence any possible transfer would need a record-breaking price.
RMC Sport’s Fabrice Hawkins claims that Saliba is a major summer signing for Real Madrid. The Gunners, however, extended his contract in 2023, therefore tying him to the team until 2027. Arsenal has no financial need to sell and all the leverage.
Any agreement would probably call for a world-record amount for a defender, more than the £77 million Manchester United spent for Harry Maguire. Given Saliba’s significance to Arteta’s proposal, Arsenal supporters would be incensed should the team even consider an offer. Saliba is basically priceless to the Gunners.
Although Real Madrid is really interested, it will be quite difficult to get Saliba’s signature. Arsenal’s court owns the ball, hence unless Madrid is ready to go cheap, the Frenchman seems certain to spend the foreseeable future in North London.
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