Real Madrid want Arsenal defensive star to spearhead their next era | OneFootball

Real Madrid are already planning their next European era and are aiming to sign Arsenal centre-back William Saliba, according to the Independent.

They also have Manchester City midfielder Rodri, Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold and Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Cristian Romero on their radar.

Madrid want Saliba as the future of their defence, but they know luring him away could prove tricky given the Gunners’ upward trajectory.

Romero has been identified as plan ‘B’, but the 23-year-old remains their top target as they look to secure defensive reinforcements going forward.

Saliba has established himself as a key player for Arsenal since returning from three loan spells ahead of 2022-23 after initially joining in July 2019.

The France international has formed a solid partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes, with the duo widely regarded as the best centre-back pairing in the English top flight.

Saliba signed a new long-term deal until 2028 in July 2023, and prising him away from the club could prove to be tricky for Madrid.

The European giants have won 15 Champions League titles and 36 La Liga titles, making them the most successful club on the continent.

Most players would love to play for them, but Arsenal have become title challengers under manager Mikel Arteta and are building a squad capable of giving Madrid a run for their money in Europe.

They can now keep hold of their best players, and Los Blancos may have to look elsewhere for the top centre-back they want next summer.