Saliba's stance on Real transfer emerges as Arsenal defender's desire clear

William Saliba is about to enter the final two years of his Arsenal contract with Real Madrid circling - but the Gunners are determined to retain their defensive star

William Saliba will not look to force an Arsenal exit this summer, with Real Madrid circling. The Gunners star has established himself as one of Europe's best defenders.

Saliba has become a major player at the Emirates in recent seasons and is now the linchpin of their defensive line. He is set to enter the final two years of his deal in north London with rivals keeping tabs on his situation as they consider his availability.

Real are seen as the only club who could lure Saliba away from the capital and club president Florentino Perez is known to be a big fan. He's keen on landing the Frenchman and wants to make him the leader of the club's backline for years.

L’Equipe though report that Saliba will not force a move from Arsenal to Madrid and his representatives remain in talks with the Gunners hierarchy over a contract extension, which would likely see his wages skyrocket such is his value at the Emirates.

It is understood that Arsenal will need to convince Saliba that he can win trophies in north London. For all the club's forward strides in recent years they're yet to land any silverware. New sporting director Andrea Berta will not consider selling Saliba to Madrid or any other club however.

Arteta was asked about interest from Real Madrid and the threat of Saliba, but was confident he would remain following conversations with the Frenchman. He said: “I leave those kind of things more for [Arsenal sporting director] Andrea [Berta] and the club to talk about.

“What I’m certain, because I had a conversation with him, that he’s so happy here, that he wants to continue with us, and what will happen in the future. Obviously it’s our negotiations and things that have to take time and process and [we have to] be on top of them."

Saliba himself has underlined his desire to deliver glory to Arsenal. The club's last success was in 2020 when they claimed the FA Cup and the centre-half admits he will be forgotten about if he cannot deliver success at the Emirates.

He said recently: “For me, I’m really happy here. I’ve been here for two years and a half as well. There is nothing. I’m happy here and I want to continue here. I want to win big things with Arsenal. If you leave this club without winning anything the fans will forget about you. I want to win big things here.”