Arsenal open talks to ruin Real Madrid’s transfer plans

Arsenal have begun internal discussions over a new contract for William Saliba, according to French media.

The centre-back has become one of the best in his position since coming into Mikel Arteta’s team a few years ago and this has, naturally, attracted the attention of other clubs.

In recent months, Saliba’s name has frequently been associated with Real Madrid as they look to bolster their defensive lines with a long-term option. Initially, the man for the job was supposed to be Leny Yoro, but Los Blancos were blown out of the water by Man Utd.

READ MORE: Arsenal line up €100m signing as Arteta gives up on his attackers

Moreover, the current injury crisis at the Santiago Bernabeu has made signing a defender an absolute top priority. As a result, compatriot Saliba has become one of the players that always comes up in discussions at Real Madrid.

There is an acceptance that it would be difficult to prise him away from the Emirates, but it is a simple fact that no player can ignore the advances of Los Blancos.

Arsenal are in no mood to lose one of their key players and are taking measures to tie him to the club.

Arsenal open Saliba talks

According to Le10Sport, Arsenal have begun internal discussions over a new contract for Saliba, with the Gunners determined to keep hold of the 23-year-old.

The French outlet does not mention precisely how advanced or formal those talks are. It appears that the general topic of renewal has been discussed rather than any particular details.

READ MORE: Man City face Liverpool and Arsenal fate in chase for €60m star

Indeed, it is difficult to imagine Arsenal engaging in any formal talks while not having a permanent sporting director at the club. Real Madrid have yet to make any kind of approach for Saliba, but the outlet ponders whether they could feel compelled to already act in January due to the severity of their injury crisis.

However, Spanish media has played down suggestions of Real Madrid ‘panic-buying’ in the winter. Los Blancos trust their younger players to step up if need be and will look to bring in major reinforcements in the summer when the topic of Saliba could come up again – unless Arsenal manage to extend his deal, which currently expires in 2027.