ARSENAL defender William Saliba has reportedly emerged as a top transfer target for Real Madrid.
The Frenchman has firmly established himself as one of Europe’s top defenders over the last two years.
And his impressive form has attracted interest from some Champions League rivals.
Spanish outlet SPORT claims Real Madrid could launch a bid to sign him at the end of the season.
But they will likely have to fork out at least £83million for him – which would be a world record fee for a defender.
The report also claims Real Madrid chiefs sounded out Saliba‘s entourage and received a positive response.
Saliba currently has two-and-a-half years remaining on his Arsenal contract.
But last month he gave Mikel Arteta a boost by pledging his long-term future to the Gunners.
He insisted: “I feel at home here.
“I signed for the club five years ago but it’s only my third season and I’m enjoying everything — the players, staff and fans.”
FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS
Asked if could envisage staying at the Emirates for a long time, the Frenchman replied: “Yeah, of course.”
Saliba is not the only man on Real Madrid’s radar.
Los Blancos are also pushing to sign Liverpool full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The Reds turned down an approach from the La Liga giants on Tuesday.
But Alexander-Arnold is now free to speak to Real Madrid officials about a potential summer move because he is within the final six months of his contract.
Earlier this week, reports in Spain suggested Real are confident he will join at the end of the season.
