Report: Real Madrid secure first option with Arsenal over William Saliba transfer

The agreement, reached after talks between Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and Arsenal representatives, marks a bold move by the Spanish giants to keep tabs on one of Europe's top centre-backs.

The discussions took place during Arsenal's 3-0 thrashing of Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final first leg, where Saliba's commanding performance at the Emirates Stadium only deepened Madrid's interest.

Despite a rare mistake from the 24-year-old Frenchman in that match, Perez remained undeterred, viewing Saliba as a cornerstone for Madrid's future defence.

Spanish outlet Defensa Central reported that Arsenal, while keen to retain Saliba, would consider a swap deal involving Real Madrid's young talents Arda Güler and Endrick if the player refuses to extend his contract.

"Arsenal want to keep Saliba, but if he refuses to renew, they would be open to negotiating for the French centre-back, whom they value at 100 million euros," the report said. However, Perez has no intention of parting with either Guler or Endrick, making such a swap unlikely.

Instead, the agreement ensures Real Madrid will be the first club notified if Arsenal opt to sell Saliba before his deal runs out. "If at any time they decide to put the French player for sale, they will first notify the Santiago Bernabéu, and Real Madrid will decide if they are interested," Defensa Central noted. This verbal commitment, while non-binding, gives Madrid a tactical edge in tracking Saliba's future.

Arsenal, however, remain confident in tying Saliba to a new contract. The Athletic reported that the Gunners are "aware of Madrid's interest but remain confident they will be able to reach an agreement with Saliba on a new deal." Saliba himself has expressed loyalty to Arsenal, stating in June 2024 that manager Mikel Arteta "took me to another level" and that he aspires to become an Arsenal legend.

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has also weighed in, urging Saliba to stay put. "William Saliba is enjoying his time at Arsenal so far. He loves the way Arsenal play and has become a different kind of player," Petit told The Evening Standard. "The grass is not really greener outside."

Real Madrid's long-term interest in Saliba, which dates back to his days at Saint-Etienne, reflects their strategy of targeting elite young talent. However, with Arsenal's firm stance and Saliba's happiness in North London, any move appears distant.

For now, Madrid's agreement keeps them in pole position, but the Gunners are determined to build their future around their defensive rock.