Real Madrid encouraged to invest £66m in Arsenal star ‘to fix problem for the next decade’

Real Madrid have been encouraged to make a substantial investment in Arsenal’s William Saliba as their next long-term central defender solution.

The Spanish champions are already exploring options to strengthen their defense in the January transfer window, with both Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal sidelined for the remainder of the season due to injuries.

Aymeric Laporte, formerly of Manchester City and currently playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, has been linked with a possible move to Madrid and has expressed interest in returning to Europe.

However, Rafael Alkorta, former Athletic Bilbao sporting director, has advised Madrid to wait until next summer to pursue Saliba, who has emerged as one of the Premier League’s top central defenders with Arsenal.

“Maybe you need to spend €80 million (£66.5m) on someone like Saliba, who could serve you for the next decade. Real Madrid rarely makes mistakes in that regard,” Alkorta suggested.

Asked about the rumors of Madrid’s interest, Laporte responded, “I’m not very aware of it. I’ve just seen the same reports as you, so there’s no issue. Obviously, a club like Real Madrid is highly respected.”

Meanwhile, Madrid is also targeting Trent Alexander-Arnold as a key signing for next summer. The England international will be a free agent once his contract with Liverpool ends this season. Although Madrid may attempt a January bid, Alexander-Arnold reportedly intends to finish the season at Anfield.