Arsenal Push for William Saliba Contract Extension Amid Madrid Interest

William Saliba Arsenal contract talks heat up as Gunners offer five-year deal to fend off Real Madrid’s growing interest.

Arsenal have made a decisive move to secure the future of star centre-back William Saliba, offering the French international a new five-year contract in response to growing interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Saliba, widely regarded as one of the best defenders in world football, has become indispensable to Mikel Arteta’s plans since his breakthrough in 2022. With 137 appearances for the Gunners and three consecutive inclusions in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year, his influence on Arsenal’s title challenges has been immense.

Despite having a contract that runs until 2027, Arsenal are keen to avoid a repeat of the Trent Alexander-Arnold saga at Liverpool, where delays in renewal talks led to a free transfer to Real Madrid. To prevent similar risks, Arsenal have tabled a lucrative five-year extension that would push Saliba’s weekly wages beyond £200,000, according to Foot Mercato.

Real Madrid’s Shadow Looms

Real Madrid have long admired Saliba, tracking him since his Saint-Étienne days. Reports suggest the Spanish club is eyeing a move in 2026 when Saliba enters the final year of his current deal, or potentially waiting to sign him as a free agent in 2027. Arsenal’s offer is a strategic counter to this looming threat, with negotiations currently ongoing and no final agreement yet reached.

Former Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva has publicly urged Saliba to resist the allure of Madrid, emphasizing the unique culture and legacy he could build at the Emirates. “If they understood the greatness of the club and didn’t let themselves be carried away by the ego… they could build a history at the club,” Silva remarked.

Sporting director Andrea Berta is spearheading the renewal efforts, also working on a new deal for winger Bukayo Saka. Arsenal insiders remain optimistic, citing Saliba’s continued focus on the club and his ambition to win major trophies in North London.

Strategic Depth

While losing Saliba would be a significant blow, Arsenal have quietly prepared for contingencies. The arrival of Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia offers a promising long-term alternative, though the Spaniard is still developing and not yet at Saliba’s level.

As discussions continue, Arsenal fans will be watching closely. The club’s proactive stance reflects both their ambition and their recognition of Saliba’s irreplaceable role in their defensive setup. Whether Saliba commits to the Emirates or entertains Madrid’s advances, the outcome will shape Arsenal’s trajectory for years to come.

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