Arsenal Offer William Saliba New Five-Year Deal Amid Real Madrid Interest

Arsenal have reportedly offered star defender William Saliba a new five-year contract in a bid to fend off growing interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid. The French international, widely regarded as one of the best centre-backs in world football, is entering a critical phase of his career — and the Gunners are determined to keep him at the Emirates.

📝 Arsenal Move to Secure Saliba’s Future

Saliba’s current deal runs until 2027, but with Real Madrid said to be preparing a move in 2026 — when he’ll have just 12 months remaining — Arsenal are acting early. According to Foot Mercato, the club has tabled a fresh five-year offer, hoping to lock down the 24-year-old’s long-term future.

Negotiations are ongoing, and while no decision has been made, Arsenal are reportedly optimistic about receiving a positive response.

🇪🇸 Real Madrid’s Longstanding Admiration

Madrid’s interest in Saliba dates back to his days at Saint-Étienne, long before his breakthrough at Arsenal. The Spanish club is said to have maintained a “positive relationship” with Saliba’s entourage and remains keen to bring him to the Bernabéu — either in 2026 or as a free agent in 2027.

Manager Mikel Arteta attempted to downplay the speculation earlier this year, stating that Saliba is “very happy” in north London. But with Madrid circling, Arsenal know they must act decisively.

🛡️ Saliba’s Impact at Arsenal

Since joining Arsenal, Saliba has made 137 appearances and has been instrumental in the club’s resurgence. He’s helped the Gunners finish as Premier League runners-up in three consecutive seasons (2023, 2024, 2025) and has twice lifted the Community Shield.

His performances have earned him a place in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year for three straight campaigns — a testament to his consistency and dominance at the heart of Arsenal’s defence.

🗣️ Gilberto Silva Urges Loyalty

Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva has weighed in on the situation, urging Saliba to resist the lure of Real Madrid and continue building his legacy at the Emirates.

“Arsenal has a philosophy and a very special culture,” Silva said. “If they understood the greatness of the club and didn’t let themselves be carried away by the ego that is inflated when faced with a big offer… they could build a history at the club.”

Silva pointed to past examples of players who left Arsenal during successful periods only to struggle elsewhere, warning Saliba that a move to Madrid would mean starting over.

💰 Arsenal’s £100 Million Valuation

In a show of intent, Arsenal reportedly placed a £100 million valuation on Saliba during the last transfer window — a figure designed to deter Madrid from making a formal bid. It’s clear the club views him as irreplaceable, and the new contract offer only reinforces that stance.

🔮 What’s Next?

As discussions continue, Arsenal fans will be watching closely. Losing Saliba would be a seismic blow to the club’s ambitions, but securing his future could be the cornerstone of a title-winning project.

For now, the ball is in Saliba’s court — and the Gunners are doing everything they can to keep their defensive linchpin in red and white.