Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly stepping up efforts to secure a contract extension for centre-back William Saliba, amid growing interest from Real Madrid.
Saliba, whose current deal runs until 2027, has emerged as a target for the Spanish giants.
Real Madrid are believed to be using their usual long-term transfer strategy, making discreet approaches behind the scenes in an attempt to persuade the 24-year-old to reject a new deal and instead hold out for a move to Spain, potentially in a cut-price deal in 2026 or on a free transfer in 2027.
While Saliba has publicly expressed his commitment to Arsenal, fans remain cautious until a new contract is signed.
According to L’Équipe, Berta is also aware of the looming threat from Madrid.
Having spent 12 years in the Spanish capital with Atletico Madrid, Berta is well-acquainted with Real’s recruitment tactics – the same approach that successfully landed Kylian Mbappe and is reportedly being used to lure Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer.
In response, Berta has taken swift action.
He has held regular talks with Saliba’s representatives in recent days, aiming to counter Madrid’s advances and accelerate negotiations over a new contract.
Berta is keen to tie down Saliba as soon as possible before Madrid can make serious headway in their pursuit of the French defender.
Contract negotiations are expected to play a central role in Berta’s first summer at the helm.
In addition to Saliba, Arsenal are also looking to secure the future of Leandro Trossard, whose current deal runs until 2026.
Several other key players are also entering the final two years of their contracts.
Alongside William Saliba, Arsenal must resolve the situations of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Magalhães, and Gabriel Martinelli.
Striker Gabriel Jesus, currently sidelined with a knee injury, also has a contract that expires in 2027.
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