Real Madrid is still keeping an eye on opportunities to improve its squad for the upcoming season. One of the "musts" that Xabi Alonso has set for Florentino Pérez in building the roster is clearly in defense. He doesn't fully trust what he has and needs something more, to the point that he's willing to sacrifice someone from the attack in order to strengthen the backline.
As of today, all eyes are on Rodrygo Goes. Despite having plenty of time left on his contract, the truth is that Xabi Alonso doesn't fully trust him. This has become clear in his first matches in charge of Madrid, as he has opened the doors wide for him. Florentino is asking for €100 million for the Brazilian, although he would also be open to a swap deal.
Swap deal offered to Arsenal
"Indykaila News" has revealed that Real Madrid has offered the possibility of a straight swap with Arsenal. Rodrygo would head to London, while defender William Saliba would come to the Spanish capital. The Frenchman is highly regarded at Santiago Bernabéu, as he's considered one of the best center-backs on the planet. One of the president's dreams is to bring him in to pair with Huijsen.
While Rodrygo Goes is valued at €90 million, Saliba is around €80 million. Despite this, Real Madrid is clear that both footballers could be exchanged.
Arsenal's response
The response from London has been clear: William Saliba is not for sale.
Arsenal appreciates Rodrygo's quality, an striker who, at 24, has already established himself as a starter for Real Madrid and who attracts interest across much of Europe. However, Mikel Arteta's side believes that Saliba's role in the team is absolutely essential. The French center-back has become the leader of the defense, a key piece in the gunner project, and a player on whom they want to build the imminent future.
For that reason, despite valuing the Brazilian, Arsenal believes that Saliba has a higher value and that selling him would seriously weaken the team. The message has been unequivocal: there's no possible agreement and the Frenchman will remain the reference point at Emirates Stadium.
For Real Madrid, the situation is a setback in its search to strengthen the backline. Rodrygo Goes remains one of the club's major assets and Xabi Alonso still doesn't fully trust him. The swap deal has been ruled out, and with that, Saliba's future seems set to remain with Arsenal.