- Rodrygo linked with Arsenal
- Real Madrid want Saliba
- Los Blancos propose swap
According to DefensaCentral, Madrid are prepared to let Rodrygo leave the club this summer and their top centre-back target is Arsenal star Saliba. Although Liverpool‘s Ibrahima Konate may be more gettable, as his contract expires next summer, a swap for Rodrygo and Saliba has ‘not been ruled out’ by Los Blancos.
While Madrid may be open to letting the Brazilian forward leave, Arsenal have no intention of Saliba departing the club for the foreseeable future. Indeed, the France international said he is “hopeful” of signing a new deal with the Gunners soon. But few can resist the temptation to join Madrid if the Spanish giants come calling.
The report adds that the 24-year-old Rodrygo is considered ‘expendable’ at Madrid, as evidenced by his bit-part outings at this summer’s Club World Cup. Meanwhile, Los Blancos are said to see Saliba as a ‘generational’ candidate for their centre-back positions.
It remains to be seen if Madrid will make a move for either Saliba or Konate and if Rodrygo will stay at the Santiago Bernabeu when the transfer window shuts in a matter of weeks. Before then, Arsenal take on Athletic Club on Saturday in their final pre-season game.
