Real Madrid are reportedly planning a swap deal with Arsenal, offering Rodrygo in exchange for defender William Saliba.
According to a report from Football Transfers, relayed by TBR Football, the Spanish giants are keen to secure Saliba’s services, even if it means parting ways with the Brazilian forward Rodrygo.
Saliba is considered one of the top defenders in world football and a crucial part of Arsenal’s squad.
The 23-year-old has formed a formidable center-back pairing with Gabriel Magalhães, which many regard as one of the best defensive duos in the Premier League.
Arsenal signed Saliba from Saint-Étienne in 2019, but he had to wait until 2022 to make his debut for the Gunners. Since then, Saliba has become an integral figure in the team’s defense, playing a significant role in Arsenal’s recent title challenges over the past two seasons.
The French international has earned 23 caps for France and has made 89 appearances for Arsenal. He is currently under contract with the club until 2027, but Arsenal are reportedly eager to secure him on a new long-term deal.
Real Madrid, looking to strengthen their defense for the future, are willing to include Rodrygo in a potential swap deal to bring Saliba to the Santiago Bernabéu.Rodrygo has been an important player for Real Madrid since his arrival from Santos in 2019 in a deal worth €45 million.
The versatile forward has contributed 56 goals and 43 assists in 224 appearances for Los Blancos and has won 12 trophies with the club. Despite his significance to the team, Madrid appears ready to sacrifice him to bolster their defense with Saliba’s arrival.In other transfer news, Arsenal are also reportedly competing with Real Madrid for the signature of Argentine wonderkid Franco Mastantuono. According to TBR Football, the Gunners are determined to beat Real Madrid in the race to sign the River Plate youngster.
Mastantuono, a versatile attacking midfielder, has already made a name for himself at just 17 years old, having made 29 senior appearances for River Plate. His current contract with the Argentine club includes a €45 million release clause.
Real Madrid, known for successfully signing young talent from South America, have been long-time admirers of Mastantuono. However, Arsenal are reportedly prepared to trigger his release clause and do whatever it takes to bring the highly-rated youngster to North London.
