Real Madrid plotting move for Arsenal star as they look to bolster squad - Reports

European champions Real Madrid are reportedly monitoring Arsenal star defender William Saliba. The French center-back is regarded by Los Blancos as a high-profile player who could significantly improve their defensive options next season.

Since joining Arsenal permanently in 2022, Saliba has gone from strength to strength, while playing a pivotal role in the club’s rise to title contenders. Boss Mikel Arteta has placed immense trust in the 23-year-old, and he has repaid that faith over the last two seasons.

Saliba was named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season and was also shortlisted among the 30 nominees for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

Real Madrid have been tracking the defender for a while, and according to Fichajes, they sent scouts to observe his performance during Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park.

Should Los Blancos advance their interest, they could greatly strengthen their defensive lineup. The Spanish club were searching for a center-back this season as well, but their attempt to sign Lenny Yoro in the summer fell through, as he opted to join Manchester United for a reported €62 million.

However, Arsenal won't let Saliba go easily, as the Frenchman is under contract till 2027. Arteta has also made the former Saint-Etienne defender a key part of his squad, and Saliba is considered one of the Premier League’s top defenders.

However, if Madrid were to pursue a deal for Saliba, it would be a significant blow to Arsenal and their ambitions of challenging for the Premier League title.

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Carlo Ancelotti faces dilemma with Real Madrid’s lack of defensive options

Real Madrid entered the season with only two experienced centre-backs, Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti and the club were confident that players like Aurelien Tchouameni, Ferland Mendy and David Alaba (set to return at the end of 2024) would provide sufficient backup for the first-choice centre-backs.

However, just a month into the season, Eder Militao suffered a thigh injury during the international break, while Aurelien Tchouameni and Ferland Mendy withdrew from the France squad due to injuries sustained against Real Betis.

As a result, Ancelotti is facing a shortage of options for the upcoming La Liga trip tot Real Sociedad. While he could consider starting 19-year-old Jacobo Ramon, reports suggest that the Italian coach may choose to pair Dani Carvajal with Antonio Rudiger at the heart of defence.

With multiple injuries at the back and limited alternatives, Real Madrid will likely be in the market for a centre-back next season to strengthen their squad.