WILLIAM SALIBA has been in talks with Real Madrid for weeks, claim reports in France.
The centre-back has two years remaining on his contract at the Emirates.
Gunners chiefs are said to be keen on renewing the Frenchman’s deal.
But according to French paper L’Equipe, are pursuing the 24-year-old.
The Spanish giants are desperate to sign a new star centre-back this summer – with at the top of their list.
Real chiefs are said to be willing to assure the Arsenal star that he would become the leader of their defence.
The Gunners ace is unlikely to force an immediate move – but could run down his contract.
It’s claimed that Real Madrid is the only club that could lure Saliba away from the Emirates.
The LaLiga champions have an extensive recent track record of signing players that have run down their deals at previous clubs.
Real Madrid signed on a free transfer from last summer.
While and have also arrived as free agents in recent years.
Los Blancos are also expected to tie up a deal for , who is set to be out of contract at this summer.
The Gunners bought Saliba from Saint-Etienne in a £27million deal in 2019.
Following loan spells at Saint-Etienne, Nice and Marseille, Saliba was finally given his chance in Arsenal’s first team in 2022.
The classy defender has gone on to make 131 appearances for the Gunners.
Saliba has also become a regular for his country, earning 26 caps for .
