Real Madrid has long been associated with the biggest names in world soccer, and its latest defensive target is no exception. With injuries plaguing their backline and an urgent need for reinforcements, Los Blancos have reportedly set their sights on a defensive star who has been compared to Jude Bellingham in terms of potential impact.
The club’s admiration for this player has been well-documented, though no official talks have taken place yet. His Premier League side are keen to keep hold of their prized asset, making any potential move far from straightforward. However, with Madrid’s history of securing world-class talent, speculation continues to swirl around a possible blockbuster transfer.
Saliba emerges as Real Madrid’s defensive dream
The mystery player in question? William Saliba. The Arsenal centre-back has established himself as one of the best defenders in world soccer, and Fabrizio Romano reports that key figures at Real Madrid see him as a ‘superstar’.
“There is no doubt that people internally at Real Madrid see William Saliba as a superstar,” Romano revealed. “A fantastic defender. I would say this is one of the best defenders in the world – they really appreciate William Saliba.”
The admiration goes even further, with one Madrid insider comparing him to Bellingham, Madrid’s midfield sensation. “It’s also important to say that someone internally at Real Madrid considers Saliba, we can say, the Bellingham of the defenders. So a top player for present, but also future, a player who can be perfect to build the future.”
While the Spanish giants hold Saliba in high regard, Arsenal are determined to keep him. The French international remains a crucial part of Mikel Arteta’s project, and with a contract running until 2027, the North London-based side holds the upper hand.
What did Saliba say about Sergio Ramos?
While Saliba has remained tight-lipped on a potential move to the La Liga giants, he did not hold back when discussing one of the club’s greatest-ever defenders. The Frenchman named Sergio Ramos as his ultimate inspiration and the best centre-back in history. “We played against him last season. I wanted his shirt, but Gabriel also wanted his shirt. So I gave it to Gabriel, because he wanted it so badly. It’s the only thing that I spoke with him. Of course, for me, he’s the best in history.”
Saliba also dismissed the idea that central defenders must be physically imposing to succeed, citing the current Monterrey ace as a perfect example. “I don’t think so. Sergio Ramos, for me, is one of the two best centre-backs in history and he’s not so big. I don’t think you have to be that big. But, of course, it’s good if you are big as well. But, yes, it depends. Everyone has his quality. Yes, that’s it.”
