According to [**Fabrizio Romano**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9Na543-EIg), Real Madrid are ready to negotiate a deal to sign William Saliba (24) from Arsenal. The European champions view the France international defender as a unique prospect to bolster their defensive options and are prepared to negotiate a deal with Arsenal, whether that be now or in the future.
Saliba’s contract at the Emirates is set to expire in 2027. **The Athletic** understands that the La Liga outfit are planning to sign the former Saint-Étienne defender on a free transfer when his contract expires at the end of the 2026/27 season. **Romano** reports Madrid views the 24-year-old as the ‘Jude Bellingham of defenders’.
##### A new contract at Arsenal?
Despite heavy interest from the Spanish club, the Gunners do not intend to let their prized defensive asset leave without a fight. Mikel Arteta believes that Saliba is happy in North London, and the Premier League club intend to offer him a new contract to extend his stay beyond 2027.
[GFFN](http://getfootballnewsfrance.com) | Liam Wraith