There was no defensiveness in Mikel Arteta‘s tone, only quiet confidence about the future of one of his star players.
Asked directly about Real Madrid’s growing interest in William Saliba, the Arsenal manager clarified where the Frenchman stands. “What I’m certain, because I had a conversation with him, [is] that he’s so happy here, that he wants to continue with us,” Arteta told reporters Friday ahead of the Premier League clash against Bournemouth. “And that’s the place that he wants to be.”
But football has never run solely on declarations of loyalty, not in the face of Madrid’s persistent pull—and certainly not when Arsenal’s ambitions may depend on strengthening elsewhere.
A swap that tempts both sides?
Reports in Spain suggest that Real Madrid have identified Saliba as the cornerstone of their next-generation backline. With Antonio Rudiger aging and David Alaba’s injury woes mounting, the club views Saliba as a long-term anchor, even a future captain. Arsenal know this and know the 24-year-old has just two years remaining on his current deal.
The club publicly wants to extend his contract, but they may be open to something else behind the scenes.
According to Fichajes and multiple Spanish outlets, Arsenal would consider letting Saliba leave—but only as part of a high-profile swap: Aurelien Tchouameni in return.
The 24-year-old midfielder, once a $107 million signing for Madrid, has reportedly drawn serious interest from Arteta. With Thomas Partey and Jorginho nearing the end of their Arsenal careers, Tchouameni could offer an instant upgrade—a player who blends physical presence with deep-line intelligence.
Madrid has resisted so far. Sources close to the club suggest they view Tchouameni as “untransferable.” But in football, few things remain so for long, especially when a player expresses interest in a new challenge or a deal opens new pathways. Madrid believes they can eventually land Saliba for a “reasonable price.” Arsenal appears determined not to make it easy.
For now, Arteta is leaning on personal conviction. “Obviously it’s our negotiations and things that have to take time,” he added, “but I’m quite confident.”
Confidence may not be enough.
