Real Madrid encouraged to make a major investment in Arsenal star to address a decade-old issue.

Spanish giants Real Madrid have been urged to make a significant investment in Arsenal’s William Saliba, who could provide a long-term solution as a standout center-back at the Santiago Bernabeu for the next decade.

The reigning LaLiga champions are reportedly exploring options to strengthen their defense in the January transfer window following season-ending injuries to Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal. Militao suffered a second ACL tear during the match against Osasuna, while Carvajal sustained a similar injury last month, leaving Carlo Ancelotti short of defensive options.

Aymeric Laporte, the former Manchester City center-back currently playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, has been linked to a move to Madrid. Addressing these rumors, Laporte commented, “I’ve seen the reports, but I’m not very aware of it. Of course, a club like Real Madrid is always appealing.”

Despite the links to Laporte, Rafael Alkorta, former sporting director of Athletic Bilbao, has suggested Real Madrid should prioritize signing Saliba next summer. Alkorta praised the Frenchman, highlighting his outstanding performances for Arsenal alongside Gabriel in one of the Premier League’s top defensive partnerships. He remarked, “Spending €80 million on a player like Saliba, who can serve the club for 10 years, is worth it. Real Madrid rarely misstep in such decisions.”

Saliba’s growing reputation has also been acknowledged by Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. Speaking to Rio Ferdinand on his YouTube channel, Van Dijk named Saliba as one of the most impressive center-backs he has observed in recent years. He even admitted that Saliba at 23 is a more complete player than he was at the same age.

Despite Arsenal’s solid defense, which has conceded only 12 goals in 11 Premier League matches, the Gunners have struggled recently, winning just one of their last four league games. This has left them fourth in the table, nine points behind leaders Liverpool. Arsenal’s next match is against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, November 23.

Meanwhile, the Gunners are reportedly tracking Ajax midfielder Kenneth Taylor as a potential signing to strengthen their midfield, with Martin Ødegaard injured and Thomas Partey potentially departing. Additionally, Arsenal are considering candidates such as Thiago Scuro and Roberto Olabe to replace Edu as the club’s sporting director.