William Saliba has handed Arsenal a major boost by committing his long-term future to the club, despite Real Madrid’s keen interest in securing him as their top summer transfer target.

.

The 23-year-old French defender, signed for £27 million from Saint-Etienne in 2019, shared his contentment at Arsenal, stating, “I feel at home here. I’m enjoying everything — the players, staff, and fans.” When asked about his future, he affirmed, “Yeah, of course,” signaling his intent to stay.

After initial loan spells at Saint-Etienne, Nice, and Marseille, Saliba has thrived under Mikel Arteta’s guidance, making 102 appearances and earning a reputation as one of the world’s finest defenders. A lifelong Arsenal fan, he reinforced his commitment last summer by signing a new four-year deal.

Despite this, Real Madrid remains eager to sign Saliba, facing their own defensive injury woes. Former Madrid defender Rafael Alkorta even described him as a “dream signing.”

As Arsenal prepares for Sunday’s clash against Fulham, they aim to close the gap to league leaders Liverpool. Defensive issues persist, with Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori undergoing late fitness checks, while Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu are out. Fulham will be without Reiss Nelson, who is ineligible to face his parent club.