Real Madrid are reportedly eyeing a swap deal with Arsenal, offering Brazilian forward Rodrygo in exchange for highly-rated French defender William Saliba.
According to a report from Football Transfers, relayed by TBR Football, the Spanish giants are eager to add Saliba to their ranks, even if it means parting ways with Rodrygo, a key player in their attack.
Saliba, considered one of the best defenders in world football, is a vital part of Arsenal’s squad.
The 23-year-old has formed a solid central defensive partnership with Gabriel Magalhães, which many believe to be one of the strongest in the Premier League.
Arsenal initially signed Saliba from Saint-Étienne back in 2019, but it wasn’t until 2022 that he made his debut for the Gunners.
Since then, he has established himself as a key figure in Arsenal’s defense, playing a crucial role in the team’s title challenges over the past couple of seasons.
Saliba’s impressive performances have earned him 23 caps for the French national team, and he has made 89 appearances for Arsenal.
His current contract with the North London club runs until 2027, but Arsenal are reportedly keen on securing him on a new long-term deal.
However, Real Madrid, aiming to reinforce their defensive line for the future, see Saliba as a valuable addition and are willing to offer Rodrygo in a potential swap deal to bring him to the Santiago Bernabéu.
Rodrygo, who has been a key player for Real Madrid since his arrival from Santos in 2019 for €45 million, has contributed significantly to the team’s success.
The versatile forward has tallied 56 goals and 43 assists in 224 appearances for Los Blancos and has won 12 trophies with the club.
Despite his importance to the team, Real Madrid seem prepared to sacrifice him to strengthen their defense by acquiring Saliba.
In other transfer news, Arsenal are also reportedly competing with Real Madrid for the signature of Argentine wonderkid Franco Mastantuono.
According to TBR Football, the Gunners are determined to outpace Madrid in the race to sign the River Plate youngster.
Mastantuono, a versatile attacking midfielder, has already made a name for himself at just 17 years old, having featured in 29 senior appearances for River Plate.
His current contract with the Argentine club includes a €45 million release clause.
Real Madrid, known for successfully recruiting young talent from South America, have been long-time admirers of Mastantuono.
However, Arsenal are reportedly ready to trigger his release clause and do whatever it takes to bring the highly-rated youngster to North London.
