Real Madrid name Arsenal star 'priority' transfer target

Real Madrid have reportedly named an Arsenal star a 'priority' transfer target this summer, but they will have to pay a huge cost for him.

Real Madrid's 'Mikel Arteta.'
AFP

According to RMC Sport, Arsenal's centre-back William Saliba is a 'absolute priority' transfer target this summer. The report adds that Arsenal do not want to lose the Frenchman, but if he is sold, he would become the most expensive defender in football history.

'William Saliba.'
Getty Images Sport

The 23-year-old has undoubtedly become one of the top centre-backs in the world, and if he leaves Arsenal, rumors claim he may fetch a cost higher than the £80 million ($99.7 million) Manchester United paid to get Harry Maguire from Leicester City in 2019. However, the Gunners will battle tooth and nail to retain France international.

The 6ft 4in defender, whose Arsenal contract expires in 2027, has made 116 appearances for the north London club, scoring seven goals.

Aside from transfer rumors, Saliba will now focus on Arsenal's next game, which is away to Leicester City in the Premier League on February 15.

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