Saliba commits to Arsenal until 2030 amid Real Madrid links

William Saliba acknowledged that interest from Real Madrid was flattering but said he chose to commit his future to Arsenal and aims to win trophies with the club before weighing any move elsewhere. The 24 year old signed a new longterm contract with Arsenal in September that runs until 2030, ending speculation he could leave while entering the final two years of his previous deal.

Saliba made the comments in an interview with French media, saying, "Of course, it's always tempting when a club like that tries to lure you, but for me, my desire was to stay at Arsenal. First, win trophies, before thinking about anything else." He also dismissed suggestions of an imminent reunion at club level with childhood teammate Kylian Mbappé, adding, "No, no, the Bondy connection is with the French national team, for now."

Arsenal moved quickly to secure Saliba after he emerged as a leading centre back following loan spells and his breakthrough into the first team in 2022. He has formed a consistent partnership with Gabriel Magalhães and has been central to an Arsenal defence that has conceded only three Premier League goals in 10 matches this season. The club sits top of the table after an...