Arsenal slap £100m price tag on star – he sees joining Madrid as ‘ultimate dream’ as his reps hold talks | OneFootball

Arsenal have slapped an asking price of £100 million on William Saliba amid interest from Real Madrid, according to Sky Switzerland.

The Frenchman’s representatives have held talks with the La Liga club about a summer move, but the Gunners are looking to hold on to him beyond this season.

Saliba sees joining Madrid as the ultimate dream of his career, and the prospect of playing alongside his international teammate and friend Kylian Mbappe appeals to him.

Madrid are short of centre-back options at the moment following injuries to their best players, and they are desperate to land the Gunners defender.

It will take plenty of money to convince Arsenal to part with Saliba, but it appears the Spanish club are ready to make him the most expensive defender in history.

The 23-year-old has established himself as one of the best players in his position in the Premier League, with 116 appearances to his name for the club.

Arsenal are challenging for the English top-flight title for the third year running after finishing second behind Manchester City in each of the last two seasons

Saliba has been crucial to their recent progress. However, a move to Madrid will be very tempting given their status as the biggest club on the planet.

Arsenal cannot afford to lose Saliba, as signing a replacement with his quality could prove tricky. Manager Mikel Arteta will be praying the Frenchman remains with the club.