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Real Madrid have made it their ‘absolute priority’ to sign Arsenal star in a record-breaking deal

Arsenal have several top-class players in their squad.

The Gunners’ latest result was a disappointing one – against Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup – but that doesn’t make them a bad team.

Mikel Arteta has immense quality in almost every single area of his pitch, and that is the reason why they are challenging for the Premier League title for the third season in a row.

That has caught the eye of several big clubs in Europe, including Real Madrid.

Real Madrid will break a record if they sign William Saliba from Arsenal

is one of the best defenders in the world.

The Frenchman has been on Arsenal’s books since 2019, but it has only been in the last three years where he has played for the club.

The 23-year-old has been absolutely magnificent, and his performances have alerted the European champions over a summer move.

TBR Football revealed in September that Real Madrid want to sign Saliba after sending scouts to watch him in a game against Aston Villa.

Now, have backed that claim and have said that the Galacticos have made the Frenchman their ‘absolute priority’ in the summer transfer window.

The report claims that Arsenal have no interest in selling Saliba and will demand a ‘dissuasive price’ to fend off Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

It has further been revealed that if Real Madrid manage to land Saliba, he will become the most expensive defender in the history of the game.

Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images

Who are the five most expensive defenders of all time?

Saliba is still only 23 and is already among the best centre-backs on the planet.

Arsenal shouldn’t even think of selling him this summer, but if he decides to leave, the Gunners will be in a position where they can demand an absolute fortune.

Saliba is almost guaranteed to become the most expensive defender of all time if he is sold this summer.

DefenderTransferFee
Josko GvardiolRB Leipzig to Manchester City£76.6m
Harry MaguireLeicester City to Manchester United£73.3m
Matthijs de LigtAjax to Juventus£72m
Virgil van DijkSouthampton to Liverpool£71.3m
Wesley FofanaLeicester City to Chelsea£67.75m
The five most expensive defenders of all time via GiveMeSport (correct as of February 7, 2025)

According to , Saliba’s current transfer value stands at €101.8 million (£85m).

Even if Real Madrid sign him for that figure, he will become the most expensive defender in history, but we’re sure Arsenal will demand a lot more.

However, in order to protect themselves, Arsenal should extend Saliba’s contract, which currently expires in the summer of 2027.