Real Madrid have identified Arsenal centre-back William Saliba as their top defensive target and are preparing a long-term strategy to bring the Frenchman to the Santiago Bernabeu, according to The Athletic.
Despite months of speculation, Saliba, 24, is not expected to make the switch to Madrid in the upcoming 2025 summer window. Arsenal’s valuation of the player remains beyond what Los Blancos are currently willing to pay. However, Madrid’s interest is far from over.
The Spanish giants are expected to keep close tabs on Saliba in the coming years, with discreet contact planned behind the scenes. Their aim is to either negotiate a more affordable deal in 2026 or swoop in for a free transfer in 2027, when Saliba’s contract is set to expire.
Although Arsenal are reportedly keen to extend Saliba’s current deal, an agreement has yet to be reached. This has opened a potential opportunity for Madrid to pounce, particularly as they look to replicate past transfer successes.
Real Madrid have a history of securing top talent either on the cheap or on free transfers. Notable examples include Thibaut Courtois and Eduardo Camavinga—both signed with one year left on their deals—as well as David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, and Kylian Mbappe, who joined on Bosman moves. The club’s reluctance to spend heavily likely stems from the disappointing €120.8 million acquisition of Eden Hazard in 2019.
Saliba, who has been a key figure in Arsenal’s defense, has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €79.5 million, with a range between €59.6m and €99.4m. Madrid, wary of overpaying, may be biding their time to land the Frenchman on their terms.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen has emerged as an alternative, but Madrid are unlikely to activate his €57.5 million release clause, with the young Spaniard reportedly headed to another Premier League side.
With their sights firmly on Saliba, Real Madrid appear poised to play the long game once again.