Real Madrid hugely impressed by £190k-per-week Arsenal star, contemplating summer transfer: Reports

Real Madrid have reportedly been scouting Arsenal centre-back William Saliba and see the Frenchman as the ideal player to add to Carlo Ancelotti's squad in the summer.

As per HITC, Real Madrid scouts have been hugely impressed with the Frenchman and see him as one of the best center-backs in the world. They have been sending glowing reports on the Arsenal defender back to the Santiago Bernabeu and a bid is expected in the summer.

Saliba has been essential for the Gunners this season as they challenge for the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League. He has played 43 matches in all competitions this season, scoring two goals.

The Frenchman has formed a formidable partnership with Gabriel at the heart of the Arsenal defence, and they have been immense this season. They have been the main reason why the Gunners have the best defence in the league after 32 matches this season – conceding just 26 goals.

Apart from the Gunners star, Lille's Leny Yoro and Benfica's Antonio Silva are also on the Los Blancos' list. They are keen on replacing Nacho Fernandez and upgrading on David Alaba, who has been dealing with injuries.

Real Madrid target signed new Arsenal deal in 2023

Real Madrid will find it hard to lure William Saliba away from Arsenal as he signed a new deal last summer. The Frenchman penned a long-term contract before the start of the current season to extend his stay at the Emirates.

Sporting Director Edu spoke to the club's website after the contract news and said:

"We are so happy to have signed a new deal with William Saliba. William is part of our vision to keep our talented young players, who will hopefully be successful with us for many years to come so that we can grow and progress together. I know the supporters will be just as happy as we are to see William continue with us in the future."

Mikel Arteta was also delighted at the extension and said:

"To have William extend his contract with us was something we have wanted to do for a long time. William proved last season just how good and how important he is to our squad. The ability he has at his young age of just 22 is exciting, and there is of course so much more room for development with any player at this stage of their career."

Saliba's current contract ties him to the Premier League side until 2027.