While it’s fair to say it’s not going to plan for Arsenal in attack at the moment, their defence has remained steadfast, conceding just five goals in their last eight games in all competitions – including four clean sheets.
Key to the Gunners’ defensive stability has been the partnership of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba – as well as some fine form of late for David Raya. With the Gunners’ full-back injury issues, the trio at the heart of the Arsenal defence has faced a rotating cast of support, and have excelled nonetheless.
However, with prolonged spells of excellent form comes interest from elsewhere, and Real Madrid have long been linked with a move for Saliba. It’s no surprise, given the Spanish side’s history of looking to sign the best young players in the world, with the likes of Vinicius Jr, Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga joining in recent seasons.
With the Gunners looking likely to go another season without winning the Premier League, the pressure will ramp up on the club to hold onto their star men – be it players or manager Mikel Arteta.
There could be danger from elsewhere, as well. Liverpool look set to pip the Gunners to the title after a strong first season under Arne Slot. However, the Reds have a contract issue with three of their key men currently set to leave.
Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk are all out of contract at the end of the season. Alexander-Arnold, like Saliba, has been linked with a move to Real Madrid this summer and could join on a free transfer, which could be an absolute bargain for someone of his quality.
