Top defensive target will cost Real Madrid at least €120 million – report | OneFootball

According to a report from Defensa Central, Real Madrid’s growing interest in Arsenal defender William Saliba has hit a significant roadblock, with the English club reportedly demanding at least €120 million for the Frenchman.

As Los Blancos look to reinforce their defensive line in the summer, Saliba has emerged as a prime target and it is no surprise, considering his performances for the Gunners have placed him among Europe’s elite centre-backs.

Madrid have already made attempts in the past to secure Saliba’s signature. The Spanish giants approached Arsenal last summer, but their efforts were swiftly rejected by the London-based side.

Now, despite the rejection, the interest has not died down. With a contract running until 2027, Arsenal hold all the cards, and they have made their stance clear that Saliba will only be sold if a club is willing to meet their €120 million valuation.

Interestingly, the push for Saliba may be coming from more than just the boardroom at Madrid. Kylian Mbappe is reportedly advocating for the transfer of his compatriot. However, even with Mbappe’s influence, the fee Arsenal demand remains a huge obstacle.

Arsenal do not want to sell

William Saliba will cost Real Madrid at least €120 million. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Arsenal, for their part, are not caught off guard. According to the report, they have already started identifying potential replacements, with Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande topping their list.

This signals that while Arsenal are prepared to hold on to Saliba, they’re also aware that Madrid’s pursuit is serious and unlikely to fade away without a fight.

The price tag of €120 million, however, would be a record-breaking figure for a defender and it is not yet clear whether Madrid are willing to go that far.

The club’s need to bolster its defence is pressing, especially with injuries and ageing players affecting depth, but a nine-figure move would require full backing from Florentino Pérez and his team.

For now, Saliba remains an Arsenal player, but with the summer transfer window approaching, the battle for his signature could soon become one of the biggest sagas of the season.