Arsenal ‘are handed major boost with Real Madrid unlikely to sign a key star in the summer’ – but Spanish giants ‘will make another move in 2026’
- Real Madrid have been linked with a move to sign one of Arsenal’s key players
- But they are reportedly unlikely to table a bid for the 24-year-old this summer
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Real Madrid have reportedly been forced to play the waiting game in their pursuit of one of Arsenal’s key players.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side travelled to North London on Wednesday intent on taking the first step to securing their place in the Champions League semi-finals.
However, an Arsenal side inspired by two incredible free-kicks from Declan Rice ultimately produced a 3-0 victory at the Emirates that is bound to live long in the memory.
While the midweek result will undoubtedly come as a lift for Mikel Arteta, news surrounding Real’s transfer plans for the summer may provide yet more cause for celebration.
According to a report from The Athletic, Real Madrid are unlikely to table a bid for William Saliba when the transfer window despite maintaining a long-standing interest in the Gunners’ defensive stalwart.
Los Blancos are said to have maintained a relationship with Saliba’s representatives throughout his time in north London, and view the 24-year-old as the perfect addition to their aging defence.
Real Madrid are unlikely to make a bid for long-standing target William Saliba this summer, according to reports
The Frenchman starred as Arsenal secured a historic victory over Los Blancos in midweek
But Real’s transfer policy is reportedly set to rule out any approach for Saliba prior to next summer
Saliba’s current contract at Arsenal is set to expire in the summer of 2027, but the report suggests that the likelihood of an extension is likely to deter Real’s interest this summer.
However, the Frenchman has reportedly been earmarked as a top target at the Bernabeu and the club will look to make a move the following summer or to entice Saliba to join as a free agent when his contract expires.
The signing of a centre-back has long been a priority in the Spanish capital, with Real reportedly targeting Leny Yoro before he opted to join Manchester United last summer.
Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen has been linked with a move to Real in recent weeks, but the Spain international’s £50million asking price combined with his relative inexperience reportedly makes any potential move unlikely.
Saliba, has been a key component in Arsenal’s successes under Arteta in recent years, forming a formidable partnership with Gabriel in the heart of the club’s back line.
He was ever-present as Arsenal took the Premier League title race to the final day before being pipped to the post by Manchester City last season.
The Saint-Etienne academy graduate was also named in the PFA Team of the Season for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 campaigns.
