William Saliba contract agreed as Arsenal fight off Real Madrid transfer interest

Saliba has committed his future to Arsenal (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

He will become one of the best-paid players at the club, reflecting his standing with the team. Real Madrid had expressed interest in the defender, but Saliba has always maintained his desire to stay with the North London side.

While there had been some concern about the 24-year-old’s future with just over a year remaining on his current deal, the club had been calm for some time about the defender’s commitment. Andrea Berta, the new sporting director, has been involved in talks and the extension follows renewals of Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Gabriel Magalhaes this year.

The final details are due to be sorted imminently in what is a big boost to Mikel Arteta. Arsenal have strengthened further in the defence this summer with the arrivals of Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie.

Saliba Transfer Rumor Premier League Arsenal Real Madrid

Antoine Semenyo injury latest after Bournemouth star leaves Ghana squad:Antoine Semenyo is an injury doubt for Bournemouth's match against West Ham after withdrawing from Ghana's squad with a ligament sprain. The in-form winger has six goals and three assists this season.

Man Utd flop sold by Amorim for £22m is now being likened to Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar:Antony, sold by Man Utd for £22m, has revived his career at Real Betis with 6 goals in 11 games. Teammate Marc Bartra likens him to Neymar and Ronaldo, praising his mentality and talent.

Romeo Lavia: Why Man United turned down Chelsea’s offer to sign midfield general:Manchester United turned down Chelsea's offer to include Romeo Lavia in the Alejandro Garnacho transfer due to concerns over the midfielder's injury record. Lavia has missed 88 games since joining Chelsea in 2023.