Big blow for Real Madrid as defensive target acknowledges contract talks with Premier League club | OneFootball

Earlier in the summer, William Saliba had emerged as one of Real Madrid’s top targets in their quest to bring in defensive reinforcements.

Regarded as one of the best defenders in the Premier League, the Arsenal star’s name was on everyone’s lips for a time.

However, after Real Madrid failed to strike a deal with Arsenal, primarily due to the club’s hefty asking price, they eventually settled for Bournemouth prodigy Dean Huijsen.

But that does not mean Los Blancos have lost sight of Saliba. The Frenchman, in fact, remains a top target for the club as they look to add more defensive reinforcements in the summer of 2026.

Saliba acknowledges Arsenal contract talks

However, much to Real Madrid’s misfortune, it appears Saliba has recently admitted he is in talks with Arsenal over a new deal.

William Saliba may soon sign a long-term contract at Arsenal (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)

In a recent interview (h/t Daily Mail), the Frenchman even revealed his desire to sign a new contract as soon as possible.

“I hope it gets done soon,” the defender responded when asked about whether or not he will sign a new deal at Emirates.

Saliba’s current deal at the club expires in 2027 but the new deal could go a long way in securing his long-term future at Arsenal.

This will also effectively rule Real Madrid out of the chase. In fact, Saliba even admitted that he wants to win everything at Arsenal next season, stating, “This year, we’ll try to win everything.”

Keeping this in mind, it is perhaps safe to assume that Real Madrid will not be signing Saliba anytime soon. However, the club have no shortage of options and are already in talks to sign Liverpool star Ibrahima Konate.

Whether or not the Frenchman will join the club this summer or wait until the end of his contract at Anfield remains to be seen.