Arsenal superstar names iconic Real Madrid defensive pairing as his favourite | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s hunt for a centre-back has been ongoing for a while now, and the club have been linked to several world-class centre-backs over the past year.

As the summer transfer window nears, the names again begin to be linked with Los Blancos hard and fast with free agents like Ibrahima Konate featuring as serious options.

Concurrently, however, there are some players that Real Madrid see as the ideal signings will cost a significant amount.

While these signings are unlikely, it is safe to say that the club will do everything in their capacity to give it a chance – and William Saliba features on that list.

Saliba likens himself to an ex-Real Madrid player

Speaking to the media in a recent interview (h/t Madrid Xtra), the Arsenal superstar was asked which former player he would compare himself to, to which he responded by picking a relatively recent Real Madrid defender.

“A former player I would compare myself to? Good question. Maybe when I started to play, some people compared me to Raphael Varane when I was young. If I can say, maybe one former player, I would say Varane.”

Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos at Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

He also opened up on his favourite centre-back pairing of all time, and he once again picked the same Real Madrid defender with his most legendary partner at the club.

“Favourite centre-back pairing? [Sergio] Ramos and Varane.”

Saliba has been one of Europe’s most in-form defenders this season and has been rock solid at the back for Arsenal, laying the foundation for their success across all competitions.

Last season, he played 90 minutes in both legs of the UEFA Champions League clash against Real Madrid which Los Blancos eventually lost 5-1 on aggregate.

His level, needless to say, impressed the club administration, but signing him will be a completely different challenge given his importance at Arsenal, Mikel Arteta’s strong project, and his contract until 2030.