Real Madrid initiate talks with agents of €80 million-rated Premier League defender | OneFootball

Real Madrid are eyeing Arsenal defender William Saliba as a potential addition to their squad, with the aim of strengthening their centre-back position.

According to a recent report from SPORT, Saliba has impressed the Madrid hierarchy and has emerged as a top priority for the club.

It is said that Madrid have been closely monitoring the Frenchman’s performances and see him as an ideal reinforcement for a defence that has been under scrutiny.

Arsenal will not sell

Although Arsenal have made it clear that they do not want to part ways with Saliba, as he is considered one of their key assets, the situation could change in the summer.

Saliba’s value has significantly increased since his move to Arsenal in 2019. At that time, he was acquired for a relatively modest sum, but now, his market price is estimated at €80 million, a significant rise of €57.5 million from his original worth.

Meanwhile, Arsenal rejected a €95 million offer from PSG just two months ago, demonstrating their firm stance in holding onto the defender.

Real Madrid have been in touch

Real Madrid have William Saliba on their radar. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Real Madrid, however, are said to have initiated discussions with Saliba’s representatives, and the early signs suggest a positive response.

These negotiations are being handled with discretion, as Madrid are keen to avoid making any public statements about their intentions.

Saliba is under contract with Arsenal until 2027, and Real Madrid’s strategy is to make an offer that would be hard to refuse, potentially reaching €100 million or more. This would break the current record for the most expensive defender in football history.

The Mbappe connection

One advantage for Real Madrid is Saliba’s background. He hails from Bondy, the same suburb in France that produced Kylian Mbappe.

This connection could make the move even more appealing, as Saliba would join a squad already featuring several French players, including Mbappe, Eduardo Camavinga, Ferland Mendy and Aurelien Tchouameni.

With these factors in mind, Real Madrid are prepared to make a serious push for Saliba when the opportunity arises.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on the date of publication.