Real Madrid had approached Arsenal mainstay before his renewal agreement – report | OneFootball

On Thursday, reports emerged confirming that William Saliba had reached an agreement over a long-term contract renewal with Arsenal.

The 24-year-old Frenchman had been at the top of the wishlist for Real Madrid to reinforce their centre-back position next summer.

There was already interest in the defender this past summer, but a move was not made. However, Real Madrid were keeping an eye on him, as he would have entered the final year of his contract in 2026.

Real Madrid had contacted Saliba

Now, according to Rodra of ESPN, Real Madrid had even approached Saliba directly in recent months, hoping he might resist renewing with Arsenal.

The French international had been at the top of the Merengues’ shortlist of candidates to strengthen the defence for the future.

Signing a renewal at Arsenal. (Photo by Harry Murphy/Getty Images)

He embodies the profile sought in recent signings: young, experienced, and with strong pedigree at both club and international level.

However, Saliba already has a verbal agreement in place to extend his stay at Arsenal, making a move to Real Madrid now highly unlikely.

The development represents a setback for the Spanish capital club, considered how much they admired the Arsenal mainstay.

But, there are a number of alternatives lined up by Los Blancos, with names like Ibrahima Konate, Dayot Upamecano, and Marc Guehi among possible targets.

It remains to be seen how things evolve in the coming weeks and who Real Madrid go after, but what is clear is that a move for Saliba is off the table.