Real Madrid wants Saka for 150 million euros: is it true or just a rumor?

Spanish media reports suggest Real Madrid are willing to spend €150 million to sign Bukayo Saka. However, at the moment, the deal is blocked from all three sides: Arsenal have no reason to sell, Saka doesn't want to leave London, and Real would have to disrupt their attacking structure if they want to make way for a new star.

Three major barriers

According to Fichajes, Real Madrid's chances only open up if they "make room" by selling one of their attacking pillars such as Vinícius Junior or Rodrygo Goes. This is a risky gamble as the team is rebalancing its squad for a new phase with Kylian Mbappe.

For Arsenal, Saka is a cornerstone of the project under Mikel Arteta. Many sources in England indicate that the two sides have reached a verbal agreement on a new contract extending until 2030. In a title-contending environment, a team rarely weakens itself by selling its most valuable asset.

From a personal perspective, I also don't favor leaving Real. At Emirates, Saka played a central role, started regularly, and enjoyed the absolute trust of the manager and fans. Leaving would mean accepting the risk of fierce competition at Bernabéu, where even promising young players like Endrick or Rodrygo don't always get plenty of playing time.

• Expected price: 150 million euros
• Saka's age: 24
• Source: Fichajes suggests Real Madrid needs to sell Vinícius Junior or Rodrygo Goes to make room.
• Contract: Multiple sources in the UK say Saka reached a verbal agreement until 2030.

Why is Saka so appealing from a tactical perspective?

At 24, Saka is already a consistent and influential attacking player in the Premier League. His speed, ability to create chances, versatility, and calm demeanor make him suitable for many attacking formations. From a tactical perspective, he is a piece that could elevate the attacking line-up for Xabi Alonso.

However, compatibility in concept doesn't necessarily mean immediate implementation in practice. To make room and a role for Saka, Real would have to change their attacking lineup – something unlikely given their current focus on building an attack around existing stars.

Where should we switch places to pick up Saka?

Fichajes stated that if Real Madrid wants Saka, they need to consider sacrificing Vinícius Junior or Rodrygo Goes. This is not just a financial issue – it also risks disrupting the development of their current attacking structure, especially during a period when the team needs to adapt to Kylian Mbappe.

Arsenal and the reason why they "won't sell"

Arsenal don't just want to keep Saka – they need him for their long-term goals. Saka is a symbol of the team's return to the top under Mikel Arteta, and a key creative force in their ambitions to compete in the Premier League and Champions League. Selling Saka now would go against the direction the North London club is pursuing.

Perspective and reality

The prospect of Saka wearing the white shirt is easy to imagine: a player who fits the requirements of speed, unpredictability, and versatility. But there's a big gap between prospect and reality, as all three prerequisites are currently at odds: Real Madrid are having difficulty making room, Arsenal aren't selling, and Saka doesn't want to leave.

From a purely footballing standpoint, Saka would be a perfect fit for Real Madrid. However, at the moment, the €150 million offer seems more like a rumor designed to heat up the market than a feasible transfer plan.