Arsenal Face Battle to Keep Star Defender as Xabi Alonso Launches Defensive Overhaul
Arsenal could face a major defensive crisis as William Saliba is reportedly willing to take a pay cut to force through a move to Real Madrid this summer. The French center-back—a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta’s backline—has emerged as Xabi Alonso’s top defensive target, with Marca revealing the 23-year-old would even accept reduced wages to secure his Bernabéu switch.
Arsenal’s Busy Summer Meets Unexpected Threat
The Gunners have already spent £123m on Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Christian Norgaard, with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres (£55m) and Valencia’s Cristhian Mosquera (£17m) set to follow. Yet their transfer plans risk unraveling as Madrid intensify efforts to poach Saliba, whose contract talks have stalled despite having three years remaining.
Spanish reports claim Alonso has identified defensive reinforcements as urgent priorities after witnessing Antonio Rüdiger and Raúl Asencio’s struggles during Madrid’s Club World Cup campaign. Saliba and Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté are the two primary targets, with the Arsenal man privately open to delaying his move by one year—but Madrid may push for an immediate deal.
Why Saliba Would Leave North London
Despite becoming a fan favorite at the Emirates, the allure of joining 15-time European champions Madrid holds undeniable appeal. Marca suggests Saliba views the Spanish giants as his “dream” destination, with Arsenal yet to convince him to extend his contract beyond 2027.
Liverpool’s Konaté presents a cheaper alternative given his expiring contract, but Madrid are reportedly prepared to pursue both defenders. The situation mirrors Trent Alexander-Arnold’s free-transfer move earlier this summer, with Anfield officials suspecting Madrid have already laid groundwork for Konaté’s 2025 arrival.
Arteta’s Looming Headache
Losing Saliba would deliver a devastating blow to Arsenal’s title ambitions after his transformative impact since 2022. The club had hoped to build their defense around him long-term, but Madrid’s interest—coupled with the player’s willingness to compromise financially—has dramatically shifted the landscape.
With pre-season underway and the Premier League kickoff approaching, Arsenal must now decide whether to dig in for a costly battle or reluctantly entertain offers for their defensive linchpin. One thing is certain: Madrid’s “operation Saliba” is accelerating—and the Gunners are running out of time to change his mind.
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