Real Madrid are confident they have identified the next Jude Bellingham-level talent for the summer, with an eye on Arsenal’s player.

The Spanish club is putting together one of the most impressive squads in recent history, although there’s still one area that requires improvement.

Los Blancos are now turning to North London as they continue to secure top-tier European talent for their ranks.

William Saliba of Arsenal looks on during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester City FC at Emirates Stadium on February 02, 2025.

Real Madrid see William Saliba as the ‘Jude Bellingham of defenders’ According to Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid view William Saliba as the ‘Jude Bellingham of defenders.’

The club sees the Frenchman as someone they want to build their defense around for the future.

Romano mentioned on his YouTube channel: “There’s no doubt that people at Real Madrid internally regard William Saliba as a superstar, a fantastic defender.

“At Real Madrid, they consider him one of the best defenders worldwide, with some seeing him as the Bellingham of defenders. A top player for both now and the future – a player who could be perfect to form the foundation of their future defense.”

Arsenal’s firm stance on keeping William Saliba away from Real Madrid However, Arsenal will undoubtedly resist any offers for Saliba, whom they purchased for £27m in 2019, as Mikel Arteta is determined to keep him at the heart of his defense.

Saliba will have two years remaining on his contract in the summer, which expires in June 2027, and Arsenal will need to decide whether he will commit to a new deal.

“But we must remember that Mikel Arteta and the club consider William Saliba a vital part of this project. The contract still has a long time left, and they are fully committed to their plan to keep Saliba,” added Romano.

“Real Madrid’s admiration for him is clear, but as of now, there have been no official club-to-club talks, and Arsenal will not make it easy for any club interested in Saliba.”