Real Madrid closes Arsenal's "steel shield", detonates 100 million Euro blockbuster

According to MARCA, Saliba has been identified as the number one target to strengthen the defense of the Royal Spanish team. President Perez has clearly instructed that Real will do everything possible to recruit the French center-back next summer. Both Arsenal, Saliba and Real are clearly aware of this serious interest.

However, Real Madrid are taking every step discreetly. With Arsenal still competing in both the Premier League and Champions League, Los Blancos have avoided making any public moves. Their scouting team, led by Juni Calafat, has been quietly monitoring Saliba's form.

Saliba is seen as the perfect piece to complete Real Madrid's defence in the new era, following the gradual departure of veterans like Carvajal and Nacho. However, recruiting the 23-year-old star is not simple. Saliba's current contract with Arsenal is valid until 2027, and the London club is determined to keep him with a long-term plan.

If Real want to succeed, they will have to make an attractive offer. Some sources say Arsenal will only consider a bid in excess of €100 million - a figure big enough to make the Gunners think.

There is strong support within Real Madrid for the deal. Antonio Rudiger, the club's defensive mainstay, has publicly stated that Saliba is the player he wants the club to sign. "If I could choose anyone, I would choose Saliba," Rudiger has said, further raising expectations among fans.

However, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, there are currently no official negotiations between the parties. Romano also stressed that Saliba is currently happy at Arsenal and has no plans to leave.

With Arsenal competing fiercely with Manchester City in the Premier League and advancing deep into the Champions League, keeping Saliba is strategically important for Mikel Arteta and the team's long-term ambitions.