Real Madrid wants to sign Saliba, may negotiate player swap deals with Arsenal

It is reported that La Liga giants Real Madrid are closely following Arsenal central defender William Saliba and may propose a deal to the Gunners that includes player exchanges.

According to Spanish media, "White Legion" Real Madrid may use midfielder Aurelian Joan Améni as part of the bargaining chips in an attempt to bring Saliba to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

Saliba returned to Arsenal after acquiring valuable experience on loan to the French League and quickly grew into one of the top central defenders in the Premier League. The French international has made 130 appearances for Arsenal, and his steady performance has not only won praise from fans, but also received high praise from industry experts. However, the 2001-born star has only two years left to expire with Arsenal and has not yet shown any intention to renew his contract.

At the same time, Real Madrid is also seeking to strengthen the defense, especially given that the team's core players such as Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba are facing problems of age and injuries. Therefore, it is logical for Real Madrid to become interested in Saliba, but whether Arsenal is willing to let the backbone of the defensive is still an unknown.

It is worth noting that Arsenal also has a need for reinforcement in the midfield position. It is understood that both Jorginho and Thomas Paltey in the team may leave the team in the future due to contract issues. Against this background, 25-year-old defensive midfielder Joan Améni, who plays for Real Madrid, is regarded as an ideal alternative.

Joan Améni joined Real Madrid from Monaco in 2022 for more than £68 million (about €80 million). Although he has proven his strength, his potential has not been fully realized due to the need to take into account multiple positions including centre-backs.

When asked about the transfer rumors about Saliba, Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta did not directly deny the possibility of the French disciple leaving the team, but he emphasized the players' personal wishes: "I have talked to William, and I am sure he has a happy life at the Emirates Stadium. He wants to stay and we will continue to negotiate to achieve the (renewal) goal."