According to reports, Arsenal is currently in focus as Real Madrid failed to meet expectations under Mikel Arteta. The London club passed a tough test at the Bernabéu to reach the European semi-finals, largely due to their exceptional defensive solidity. At the heart of this defense is the Frenchman, William Saliba.

As claimed by Marca, the French defender appears to be Real Madrid’s primary choice to lead their defense starting next season. Real Madrid, Saliba, and Arsenal are all aware of this. With competitions still ongoing—the Champions League for Arsenal and La Liga for Real—negotiations are proceeding cautiously and indirectly. However, Florentino Pérez, Real Madrid’s president, seems ready to make a move to bring “the best defender currently on the transfer market” to the Bernabéu.

Dayot Upamecano is also an option for Real Madrid, but Saliba has long been in the notebook of Juni Calafat, Real’s transfer chief. Additionally, Manuel Akanji, Manchester City’s versatile defender who appears open to a move, is also on the list.

The Premier League is becoming Real Madrid’s main source for squad rebuilding. The presence of French players at Real will continue, and Xabi Alonso, the likely future coach, will have the necessary tools to build a strong team—resources Carlo Ancelotti lacked this season.