Arsenal open contract talks with 23yo starter | OneFootball

Arsenal are aware of Real Madrid interest in William Saliba and they’ve responded by opening contract talks, according to a report.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND: William Saliba of Arsenal looks dejected after Alexander Isak of Newcastle United (not pictured) scores his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Arsenal FC at St James’ Park on November 02, 2024. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Alexis Bernard of French outlet Le10Sport reports that in response to rumours of interest from Real Madrid in William Saliba, Arsenal have opened talks over a possible contract extension for the defender.

Saliba still has a while left on his contract, with two years remaining even at the end of the current campaign.

But Arsenal are reportedly aware of Real Madrid’s interest and they’re not admitting defeat.

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND: William Saliba of Arsenal arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Arsenal FC at Vitality Stadium on October 19, 2024. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Bernard concludes that for the time being, it’s still too early to tell what might happen, as neither Arsenal nor Saliba have received an offer to consider.

But with the serious injury to Eder Militao, the journalist claims that move could come sooner rather than later.

LONDON, ENGLAND: William Saliba of Arsenal celebrates at full-time during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Arsenal FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on September 15, 2024. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Saliba has made 15 appearances for Arsenal this season, playing almost every minute. The only exceptions have been the League Cup third-round game against Bolton Wanderers and the match the centre-back missed due to his red card against Bournemouth.

Arsenal’s defensive record hasn’t been as good as it was last season, with no league clean sheets since the Tottenham Hotspur game two months ago.

But the Gunners have only conceded once in four Champions League matches so far, and that was a dodgy penalty.

With all the red cards and injuries lately, it’s fair to expect that things might get back to normal in the coming weeks and months. And “normal” for this Arsenal defence with Saliba in it has been a very high standard.