Arsenal eager to renew Real Madrid target until 2032, but player reluctant – report | OneFootball

Arsenal defender William Saliba remains a key figure in the eyes of Real Madrid’s decision-makers.

Even though recent reports suggest that Los Blancos have shifted their focus towards Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate, the Arsenal mainstay very much remains on their agenda.

A long-time target for Real Madrid, Saliba’s performance in the Champions League quarter-final when the two teams met, particularly his battle with Kylian Mbappe, only intensified the club’s interest in the French centre-back.

Arsenal want to renew Saliba’s contract

Now, according to AS, Arsenal, led by sporting director Andrea Berta, are keen to extend Saliba’s contract, which currently runs until 2027, to until around 2032.

The aim is to reinforce the long-term project under Mikel Arteta, who is building a young team still chasing the one thing that eludes them: the Premier League title.

Saliba remains a target for Real Madrid. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

However, as per the report, like Ibrahima Konate at Liverpool, Saliba has no intention of renewing his contract with the Gunners at the moment.

Furthermore, it is claimed that meetings have already taken place between Real Madrid’s board and Saliba’s entourage to begin laying the groundwork for a future move to the Spanish capital.

The increasingly frequent injuries to Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba’s poor physical condition, and the ongoing doubts around Eder Militao following two serious knee injuries, all point to the need for reinforcements at the back.

Saliba is seen as a possible partner for Dean Huijsen in central defence. Although Militao is expected to take that role, the club knows more depth is essential.

With Saliba’s fellow Frenchman Konate also on the radar, the only question that remains is which player Real Madrid will prioritise.