'I was not focused' - William Saliba makes claim on Real Madrid interest with Trent Alexander-Arnold comparison after signing new Arsenal contract

Real Madrid had been interested in Saliba ever since he made his Premier League breakthrough. However, by signing a new long-term contract, the France international has made it clear that he is happy to continue with the Gunners.

After putting pen to paper on a new contract, Saliba said on Tuesday: "To be honest, I was not thinking about clubs from the outside. I wanted to stay here for more years. I was not focused on the other clubs. I'm focused on my club."

Saliba was also asked why he did not follow in Alexander-Arnold's footsteps and head to Madrid, to which the Frenchman said: "He won some titles with Liverpool, with me I didn't win anything here except the Community Shield. I want to stay here and win a lot of trophies. I love this club, I couldn't leave this club without giving something back, I've won nothing. I want to stay here and win."

After tying Saliba down to a new deal, the Gunners have shifted their focus to star winger Bukayo Saka, who has also entered the final two years of his current contract. The Daily Mirror reports that the Premier League giants are preparing a blockbuster contract that would make the England international one of the highest-paid footballers at the Emirates.

After reducing their gap with league leaders Liverpool with a thrilling win over Newcastle last weekend, Mikel Arteta's side are now focused on their upcoming Champions League fixture against Olympiacos on Wednesday.