Saliba Snubs Real Madrid Interest, Signs New Arsenal Contract

William Saliba commits to Arsenal with new deal

Arsenal secures William Saliba's future with new long-term contract. The French defender has signed a new deal, despite interest from Real Madrid, and will continue to be a key player for the Gunners.

“William Saliba commits future to Arsenal by agreeing new long-term contract. 24yo centre-back entered final 2yrs of previous deal...”

Arsenal defender William Saliba has agreed to a new long-term contract with the club, despite interest from Real Madrid. The 24-year-old French international will commit his future to Arsenal, with the deal expected to be finalized in the coming days.

According to David Ornstein, a journalist at The Athletic, Saliba's decision to stay at Arsenal is a significant coup for the club. Saliba's current contract was set to expire in June 2027, and Real Madrid had been among the suitors vying for his signature. However, the French defender has chosen to stay with Arsenal, citing his desire to remain with the team.

“EXCLUSIVE: William Saliba commits future to Arsenal by agreeing new long-term contract. 24yo centre-back entered final 2yrs of previous deal + Real Madrid among suitors,” he said on X.  

“But France int’l wanted #AFC stay & expected to sign in coming days.”

Key Details of the Contract:

• Contract Length: The exact length of the contract hasn't been disclosed, but it's reportedly a long-term deal.

• Salary: Saliba is set to become one of Arsenal's highest earners, with a salary exceeding €12 million per year.

• Market Value: Saliba's market value has skyrocketed to €80 million, a significant increase from his €22.5 million valuation when he signed with Arsenal in 2019.

This development is a major boost for Arsenal, allowing them to retain a key player in their defense. Saliba has been instrumental in Arsenal's success, playing 104 Premier League games and helping to secure 43 clean sheets. His decision to stay at Arsenal demonstrates the club's ability to attract and retain top talent, even in the face of interest from bigger clubs like Real Madrid.

🚨 EXCLUSIVE: William Saliba commits future to Arsenal by agreeing 5yr contract. 24yo centre-back entered final 2yrs of previous deal + Real Madrid among suitors. But France int’l wanted #AFC stay & expected to sign until 2030 in coming days @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/rXHsN2hwhi

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) September 25, 2025

William Saliba's future at Arsenal has been a topic of speculation, with Real Madrid reportedly interested in signing the talented defender. Despite Madrid's strong interest, Saliba's current contract extends until June 2027, providing Arsenal with a stable foundation in defense. The French international's partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes has been impressive, and Arsenal's confidence in their defensive duo is evident.

Saliba had previously expressed his happiness at Arsenal, hinting at a long-term commitment to the club. In June, he emphasized his contentment in North London, suggesting that he would stay with the Gunners. This sentiment was reinforced when Saliba signed a new contract, aligning him with other key players like Gabriel Magalhaes and showcasing Arsenal's ability to retain top talent.

Recent Developments:

Contract Extension: Saliba's new deal demonstrates Arsenal's commitment to building a strong squad.

Defensive Partnership: Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have formed a solid partnership, crucial to Arsenal's defensive success.

Real Madrid Interest: Despite Madrid's interest, Saliba's focus remains on his Arsenal career, with his contract ensuring stability for the club.