Real Madrid is grappling with a severe defensive crisis this season as several key players are out due to injuries.
David Alaba, Eder Militao, and Dani Carvajal are all sidelined, significantly weakening Carlo Ancelotti’s options at the back.
Compounding the issue is the departure of veteran defender Nacho Fernandez, who had been a reliable presence in the squad.
Furthermore, Real Madrid missed out on signing young talent Leny Yoro, who opted to join Manchester United instead.
As a result, Real Madrid is now in urgent need of defensive reinforcements to cope with the demands of the season.
To address this, the club is reportedly setting its sights on acquiring a central defender during the upcoming winter transfer window.
One of the names that has gained attention is William Saliba, the highly-rated French international currently playing for Arsenal.
At just 23 years old, Saliba has rapidly established himself as one of the standout defenders in the Premier League.
His solid performances at Arsenal have caught the eye of several top clubs, and his combination of defensive prowess and technical ability aligns with Real Madrid’s long-term strategy of investing in young, high-potential players.
Saliba’s performances at Arsenal have made him one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe, and Real Madrid was keen to explore the possibility of bringing him to Spain.
However, despite the interest from the La Liga giants, reports suggest that Saliba has rejected their approach.
According to a report from the **Daily Express**, Saliba is currently very happy with his situation at Arsenal and has no immediate desire to leave the club.
The French defender is under contract with the Gunners until 2027, and it seems that both he and Arsenal are committed to continuing their partnership for the foreseeable future.
Any potential transfer would also come with a hefty price tag, as Arsenal would likely demand a fee in excess of €100 million to even consider letting one of their key players leave.
Saliba’s decision to stay at Arsenal leaves Real Madrid in a difficult position.
The Spanish club will now have to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements, as they continue to navigate a challenging season filled with injuries and squad limitations.
While they have historically managed to attract top talent, finding a quality central defender in the January window who fits their needs will not be easy.
As the winter transfer window approaches, Real Madrid will need to act quickly to find a solution to their defensive issues.
Whether they turn to other targets or promote from within, the next few months will be critical in determining how they manage their defensive struggles and maintain their competitiveness across all competitions.
The pressure is on for Ancelotti and his staff to find a solution before the defensive crisis derails their season.
