“It’s always tempting when a club like that tries to lure you” - Arsenal defender William Saliba opens up about Real Madrid transfer interest

Arsenal defender William Saliba has opened up on interest from Real Madrid in his signature. The Frenchman was heavily linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu before signing a new deal to extend his stay at the Emirates until 2030.

Saliba has established himself as one of the best central defenders in the world over the last few years. A technically gifted defender, he is blessed with immense composure and has an eye for a pass.

Real Madrid were named as strong suitors of the former Saint-Étienne star but Arsenal made a statement by tying him down with a new deal in September. Now, the 24-year-old has opened up on Real Madrid rumors and admitted that it was tempting. The 24-year-old told Le10 Sport:

“Of course, it’s always tempting when a club like that tries to lure you, but for me, [my desire] was to stay at Arsenal. First, win trophies, before thinking about anything else.”

Saliba is yet to win a major trophy with Arsenal so far having finished as runners-up in the Premier League in the last three seasons. Mikel Arteta's side have made a blistering start to the new season and sit at the top of the table with a six-point lead after ten games.

The Gunners have been exceptionally strong at the back in the last few years with Saliba forging a strong partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes. He has so far made 146 appearances for the north London giants till date and has won two FA Community Shields.

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Micah Richards hails Arsenal star who has been incredible this season

Pundit Michael Richards has singled out Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice for his showings this season. The England international has been exceptional for Mikel Arteta's side this season as they lead the Premier League table.

Rice opened the scoring for the Gunners in their 2-0 win against Burnley on Saturday, November 1. Micah Richards has waxed lyrical about the former West Ham United star and labelled him as one of the best in the world. He said on the Rest is Football podcast:

“Declan Rice took his game to the next level now, where you’re talking about him as possibly one of the best in world football. We saw him at West Ham, a very good player. I remember some pundits were criticising him in terms of they didn’t know what he was going to be. Is he a defensive midfielder? Is he an attacking midfielder? He’s everything."

Rice has scored two goals and produced three assists in 10 appearances in the Premier League this season. With Martin Zubimendi's arrival, Rice has played mostly as a box-to-box midfielder and seems to be relishing the role.

Edited by Snehanjan Banerjee