Premier League Giants Battle for Arsenal Star Defender
Manchester City has reportedly joined Real Madrid in the race to sign Arsenal centre-back William Saliba. Both European powerhouses are said to be ready to meet Arsenal’s asking price for the highly-rated French international, according to Spanish media reports.
Saliba has been a crucial component of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal team this season, contributing significantly to their defensive solidity. He has played in 27 league games, helping the Gunners achieve 11 clean sheets. Real Madrid have long admired Saliba, viewing him as a potential long-term solution for their defense.
However, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City are now also seriously considering making a move for the defender. Concerns regarding their defensive depth as they look ahead to the next season are reportedly driving their interest.
Arsenal, understandably, are reluctant to lose such a key player. They are reportedly preparing a new contract offer to reflect Saliba’s importance to the team and ward off potential suitors. It remains to be seen if the Gunners will be able to resist the financial muscle and lure of Real Madrid and Manchester City should they make formal bids.
Arsenal Edge Closer to Zubimendi Signing Amidst Real Madrid Interest
In other transfer news, Real Madrid are reportedly set to withdraw their interest in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, paving the way for a likely summer move to Arsenal.
Zubimendi has been a target for top European clubs for some time and while he resisted offers previously, it seems his time at Real Sociedad is coming to an end. Arsenal have been pursuing the Spanish midfielder for over a year and are thought to be in a strong position to finalize the deal.
While reports of a January move were inaccurate, the Gunners are believed to remain keen on securing Zubimendi’s services and are reportedly willing to trigger his €60 million release clause.
Real Madrid’s interest was primarily to bolster their squad with local talent. However, Zubimendi would face stiff competition for playing time at the Bernabeu, competing with established midfielders like Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurelien Tchouameni.
The 26-year-old midfielder is believed to favor a move where he has a clearer path to regular first-team football. This makes Arsenal an appealing destination as Mikel Arteta looks to reinforce his midfield, particularly with the potential departures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey at the end of their contracts. Zubimendi is seen as a dependable figure who can provide stability and quality in the Gunners’ midfield.
Stay tuned for more updates on these developing transfer stories and all the latest football news.