Mbappé Calls Florentino Pérez to Push for a Key Defensive Signing

The French star urges Real Madrid to sign Arsenal’s William Saliba to strengthen their defense.

After a season plagued by injuries in defense, Real Madrid is preparing to reinforce its backline in the summer transfer window. While Trent Alexander-Arnold has been strongly linked to the club, another Premier League star is now in the spotlight—Arsenal’s William Saliba.

Saliba, Madrid’s Top Defensive Target

According to reports from ‘Relevo,’ Saliba is currently Real Madrid’s priority defensive signing. Club president Florentino Pérez recognizes that reinforcing the backline requires more than just bringing in a new right-back, and adding a top-tier center-back like Saliba could be a game-changer for next season.

Mbappé’s Role in the Potential Transfer

Kylian Mbappé, who arrived at the Santiago Bernabéu this summer, is reportedly pushing for his compatriot to join him at Real Madrid. Sources from ‘Le10Sport’ suggest that Mbappé has personally spoken to the club’s management, expressing his strong desire to see Saliba in a Madrid shirt. The two Frenchmen have maintained a close friendship since their early years in France, and Saliba would be open to reuniting with Mbappé in La Liga.

How Much Would Saliba Cost?

Despite Real Madrid’s interest, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is determined to keep Saliba, considering him a crucial part of the squad. However, according to ‘The Irish Sun,’ Arsenal could be willing to negotiate if an offer is too good to refuse.

While ‘Transfermarkt’ values Saliba at €80 million, Real Madrid would likely need to offer closer to €100 million to convince the Gunners to part ways with their star defender.

With Florentino Pérez actively searching for reinforcements, and Mbappé advocating for his friend’s arrival, Saliba could be one of the marquee signings in Madrid’s defensive overhaul this summer.