Real Madrid dealt blow in pursuit of Arsenal star: Reports

Mikel Arteta's Arsenal are reportedly preparing a new contract for French centre-back William Saliba, who has been on Real Madrid's transfer radar for a long time. As per TEAMtalk, the Gunners see William Saliba as a key player and are keen on keeping him at Emirates. As a result, the north London giants are preparing a new contract for the Frenchman.

Real Madrid's current options in central defense, former Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger and Austria's David Alaba, will turn 32 and 33, respectively, before the start of next season. As a result, the La Liga giants are on the lookout for central defenders.

During the summer transfer window, Madrid were in talks with former LOSC Lille defender Leny Yoro, who eventually penned a deal with Manchester United. Thus, the spot of Eder Militao's long-term defensive partner is still vacant in Ancelotti's side.

If Sabila signs a new contract with the Gunners, Carlo Ancelotti's side will find it difficult to sign him. The Frenchman joined the north London club from Ligue 1 side AS Saint-Etienne in July 2019. He was sent on loan to the likes of Saint-Etienne, OGC Nice, and Marseille before he became a crucial part of Arteta's side.

Saliba's current contract with Arsenal will expire in the summer of 2027. He has made 92 appearances across competitions for the Gunners, bagging five goals and two assists.

Real Madrid will be forced to sign David Alaba replacement in January: Reports

Real Madrid will reportedly sign a new central defender in the January transfer window after David Alaba's new injury concern came to light, as per Onda Cero (via Fichajes.net).

Former Bayern Munich defender David Alaba is currently suffering from a cartilage problem in the knee. Due to the injury, the Austrian is suffering from a lot of pain and is not able to perform well. As a result, Los Blancos are keen to sign a new defender in the January transfer window.

Football journalist Edu Pidal said (via Onda Cero):

"Madrid is already looking for a transfer for the winter because it seems unlikely that Alaba will return, he had reduced cartilage, which makes the bones in his knee rub together and he is in a lot of pain."

Real Madrid are currently second in La Liga with 21 points after nine games. Meanwhile, they are 17th in the UEFA Champions League after two matches. Next up, they will face Celta Vigo on Saturday, October 19.