Real Madrid make Arsenal star William Saliba 'top priority' for 2025 with Los Blancos already in contact with defender over transfer

Saliba has emerged as a key player in Arsenal's defensive setup since breaking into the first team in 2022 after loan spells at Saint-Etienne, Nice, and Marseille. His commanding performances at the back have made him one of the most sought-after young defenders in Europe and as Real looks to bolster their squad for the future, Saliba appears to be at the top of their wish list, according to reports from Le 10 Sport.

Despite Real’s interest, Arsenal have little to worry about as Saliba is currently tied to a contract at the Emirates Stadium until 2027, giving the north London club enough leverage in negotiations. They will not be in a rush to offload the France international especially as the player is crucial to their ambitions in England and Europe. However, Real's financial muscle and allure could still prove difficult to resist if the Spanish giants come knocking with a sizeable offer.

The push for Saliba comes after Real Madrid missed out on signing Leny Yoro, who instead opted to join Manchester United during the summer transfer window. Moreover, the long-term injury to Dani Carvajal has left Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti short in the defensive department, heightening the need for reinforcements. Apart from Saliba, the club is also reportedly considering alternative targets like Castello Lukeba, Jorrel Hato, and Vitor Reis. Additionally, they are also considering moves for Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold and Bayern Munich's Alphonso Davies, with both players set to hit free agency next summer.

Real view Lucas Vazquez as a direct replacement for Carvajal with Eder Militao and Rudiger as cover for the right-back position. However, if things go south they might use the Janaury transfer window to sign reinforcements. They will be back in action after the international break on October 19 against Celta Vigo in a La Liga fixture.