Real Madrid Step Up Interest in William Saliba While Arsenal Progress with Contract Talks

Key Takeaways:

• Real Madrid scouts attended Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Manchester City on Sunday to observe William Saliba.
• Despite Arsenal advancing in negotiations to secure Saliba and Bukayo Saka on new deals, Real Madrid are continuing to monitor the defender closely.
• With Antonio Rudiger expected to leave next summer, Real are considering several central defensive options, including Saliba and several free agents available in 2026.

Real Madrid Scouting Saliba Amid Defensive Reshuffle

TBR Football has exclusively revealed that Real Madrid sent representatives to the Emirates Stadium on Sunday to watch William Saliba in action during Arsenal’s 1-1 Premier League encounter with Manchester City. Saliba has established himself as one of world football’s top centre-backs in recent seasons for the Gunners, drawing significant attention from the Spanish giants as they look to strengthen their defensive ranks.

Real Madrid are actively identifying targets as part of a long-term restructuring of their back line, even following this summer’s signing of Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth. Arsenal had also targeted Huijsen, but ultimately missed out as Real clinched the player’s signature.

🚨 Real Madrid watched Arsenal centre-back William Saliba in action against Manchester City on Sunday and maintain their interest in signing the France international.

(Source: @TBRFootball) pic.twitter.com/6pGPVC30JN

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) September 23, 2025

Key Targets and Transfer Strategies

Real have been planning for the potential departure of Antonio Rudiger, who is widely expected to leave the Santiago Bernabeu at the end of the upcoming season. While Ibrahima Konate, Dayot Upamecano, and Marc Guehi are all potential free agent signings in 2026, Real are not limiting themselves to players available on free transfers and continue to identify top-priority options such as Saliba.

TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey reports that Real Madrid’s interest in Saliba remains steadfast, with the French defender being a focal point of their scouting visit on Sunday.

Arsenal Determined to Secure Core Players

On the contract front, Arsenal are progressing well with negotiations to keep Saliba at the club. The Gunners are also intent on extending Bukayo Saka’s contract, aiming to secure two of their most influential players for the long term. Nevertheless, sources indicate that Saliba remains high on Real’s list, with the Spanish side closely tracking his performances and off-field situation.

Arsenal’s Defensive Depth and Saliba’s Role

During Saliba’s recent spell on the sidelines, Cristhian Mosquera has stepped in capably, showcasing his own promise as a centre-back. Notably, Martin Keown commended Mosquera following his Champions League debut for Arsenal, suggesting the club finally has reliable coverage for Saliba should he require occasional rest periods this season.

Despite the increased attention from Madrid, Mikel Arteta remains highly unlikely to sanction a departure for Saliba, with Arsenal making it clear they would be reluctant to consider offers for the French international.