Real Madrid have been interested in signing one of Arsenal's best players for a long time. However, 2025 is believed to be the year they will step up their interest.
With the 2024 summer transfer window wrapped up, Real Madrid can overall be happy with their business. They strengthened their attack most notably.
It was a quiet window in the Spanish capital, which seems weird to say considering Kylian Mbappe was signed but in truth, their summer spending was wrapped up early. There was no room for any Carlo Ancelotti surprises.
However, if early news is anything to go by, then Real Madrid could be in for an exciting 2025. In fact, a Spanish outlet has claimed they want to sign an Arsenal star in 2025.
Real Madrid want to sign Ballon d’Or nominee from Arsenal in 2025
According to Fichajes, Real Madrid want to sign William Saliba in 2025. However, as expected, Arsenal will not roll over and succumb to Real Madrid's demands. They will instead try to keep their star player.
William Saliba is under contract in the English capital until June 2027. He only signed a contract extension in 2023 and he earns a tidy £190,000 per week, the seventh highest paid player at Arsenal.
Over the last few years, William Saliba has emerged into one of the best defenders in the world. Without a doubt, he is the best defender in the Premier League, isolating the likes of Erling Haaland whenever he plays against him.
It will appeal to Real Madrid that William Saliba is only 23 years old. Watching him on the pitch, this is difficult to predict. He is oftentimes the most mature player on the field, hence his nickname "Rolls Royce."
William Saliba was recently nominated for the Ballon d'Or award. Therefore, he could compete with the likes of Antonio Rudiger and Dani Carvajal, the two Real Madrid defenders also up for the award.
While William Saliba seems happy at Arsenal, it has proven time and time again in the past that when Real Madrid come knocking, it's often difficult to ignore those knocks.
After Real Madrid missed out on Leny Yoro in the 2024 summer transfer window, it seems like a given they will be hungry for centre back reinforcements in the next summer. After all, the defence is next on the priority list for Carlo Ancelotti, after his attacking overhaul.