Arsenal reject huge Real Madrid 'swap transfer' offer for William Saliba

Arsenal have reportedly rejected a sensational swap deal offer from Real Madrid involving William Saliba and Rodrygo. The Gunners have been linked with a move for the Brazilian all summer, with Mikel Arteta keen to add a new winger to his squad ahead of next month’s deadline.

And Madrid have attempted to take advantage of that interest by suggesting a stunning swap deal for William Saliba. The Frenchman is one of the Spanish club’s prime targets to bolster their defence.

They were hoping to sign him for free in 2027 or for a reduced fee next summer, when he would have just a year remaining on his contract in North London. But according to Marca via Sport, Los Blancos have attempted to speed up a move.

The Spanish giants have proposed a swap deal involving Rodrygo and Saliba - albeit that offer has immediately been rejected by the Gunners. It is suggested that the defender remains happy in London and isn’t considering a move at the current time.

Asked about his future last season, he Saliba said: “For me, I’m really happy here. I’ve been here for two years and a half as well. There is nothing. I’m happy here and I want to continue here.

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“I want to win big things with Arsenal. If you leave this club without winning anything the fans will forget about you. I want to win big things here.”

Asked if there had been talks regarding a new contract with Arsenal, he replied: “Not yet. Because, yes, we have some years [to go]. So there is no rush at the minute. I’m happy here. That’s it.”

Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta has recently said that he’s not allowing himself to get wrapped up in too much transfer speculation now that the season has started. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s win against Manchester United, he said: “I'll leave that to Andrea and the club.

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“My main focus is just about performing, preparing the games in the best possible way and winning because now we've started the season, it's been a long off-season, pre-season with the market and being so active on it and I'll leave it to them.”

Elsewhere, Arsenal’s rejection leaves Rodrygo’s future at Real Madrid uncertain. He has fallen out of favour under new boss Xabi Alonso.

Arsenal’s Premier League rivals Manchester City have also been linked with Rodrygo, although Pep Guardiola wants to move players on before he welcomes any more new faces to the Etihad Stadium. The Brazilian winger has a contract with Real until 2028.

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