Arsenal star responds to WORLD RECORD Real Madrid offer

Carlo Garganese

• Updated: 11 Feb 2025 07:07 GMT
• 3 min read

Real Madrid have reportedly made a record-breaking move for William Saliba, and the Arsenal star defender has not ruled out a transfer.

During Arsenal's recent trip to Dubai, a Gunners fan begged Saliba not to join Real Madrid this summer.

“Saliba, Champions League, please!,” the fan said. “Never go [Real] Madrid!”

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The defender responded to the request with a smile and was jovial but he did not assure the fan that he would in fact stay and reject Madrid.

Saliba has been increasingly linked to Madrid in recent days, with RMC Sport reporting that Madrid are planning a record-breaking move for Arsenal's star defender.

Madrid are prepared to make Saliba the most expensive defender in football history, according to Fabrice Hawkins.

This would mean Madrid paying more than the €87 million that Man Utd paid for Harry Maguire from Leicester in 2019.

RMC Sport adds that Arsenal have made it clear they have no intention to sign Saliba and will fight tooth and nail in order to keep the France international.

Saliba's contract at Arsenal expires in 2027, though, meaning that the Gunners need to extend his deal soon.

Madrid are aware of this and are ready to bide their time if they can't get Saliba this summer.

The Blancos are revolutionising their backline, and already look certain to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer from Liverpool this summer.

Saliba has been integral to Arsenal’s progress under Mikel Arteta in recent years and is considered by many as the best defender in the Premier League.

He has formed arguably the strongest centre back partnership in England alongside Gabriel.

Saliba at Arsenal

The 23-year-old Saliba joined Arsenal from Saint-Etienne in 2019 for £27 million.

After a series of loans, he established himself as a key player from the 2022-23 season as Arsenal twice finished runners-up in the Premier League.

He has made 116 appearances for the club, scoring seven goals.

Saliba has also become a first-team starter for France this year, playing in their journey to the semi-finals of Euro 2024.

He has won 26 caps for France and was also part of their squad for the 2022 World Cup where they reached the final.