Real Madrid are preparing for wholesale changes this summer as Xabi Alonso reportedly prepares to take the reins from Carlo Ancelotti at the end of the season.
Defensively, Los Blancos are looking to bring in new players to bolster their backline in the months ahead, with Trent Alexander-Arnold confirming his decision to leave Liverpool.
Injuries have been an issue for Ancelotti all season with Eder Militao and David Alaba missing large chunks of the campaign with veteran full-back Dani Carvajal also out.
As per reports on French outlet L’Equipe, the Spanish club has been in talks with Arsenal defender William Saliba’s entourage for weeks as they view him as the ideal candidate to lead their defence moving forward.
Saliba’s exceptional performances this season haven’t gone unnoticed by Real Madrid, particularly in his Champions League quarterfinal games against them earlier this year.
Los Blancos feel this is the right time for the 24-year-old to join the club as they aim to revamp their squad with young and prodigious talents.
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Will William Saliba move to the Spanish capital?
Saliba has only two years left on his contract as Arsenal and the Gunners have already offered him a contract extension. But the report suggests Real Madrid are the only club that can entice the Frenchman away from North London.
However, a couple of months ago, the 24-year-old dismissed transfer rumours, stating he is happy at Arsenal and would like to continue.
But given the contract situation, this may be the last opportunity for Arsenal to cash in on the French star, and they could demand in the region of €100m [$114m].
It remains unclear if Arsenal can convince Saliba to stay with the club, or if he decides to move to the Spanish capital, and that will dictate the next phase of negotiations.
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