Real Madrid have almost built their reputation on signing global superstars as much as winning silver.
Now William Saliba appears to the be the latest figure subject to growing transfer interest from Los Blancos ahead of the summer transfer window. Last summer saw the La Liga side complete a blockbuster deal for Kylian Mbappe, and they will look to strengthen once again.
Interest in his services from Europe’s elite is nothing new and RMC Sport claim Real have made Saliba their ‘priority’ transfer target ahead of 2025/26. Though an approach for the defender is claimed to have been meet with a ‘positive response’ from Saliba’s camp, it could take a record fee to secure his signature. Of course, that is not something Real have shied away from in the past.
Carlo Ancelotti is also set to improve his backline with the addition of Trent Alexander-Arnold. Real failed in their attempt to bring the 26-year-old to the Bernabeu in January, but are set to pounce in the summer.
The Liverpool star’s deal runs out in the summer and he has yet to commit to new terms at Anfield, meaning Les Merengues have an opportunity to sign the England international. There are certainly worse combinations of players to land in a single transfer window.
A lineup including both players would not look bad either! Real Madrid have some stars that would light up the pitch already too.
Thibaut Courtois is still a formidable presence in goal, even at 32. The Belgian international is among the first name on the team sheet and will present Saliba and Alexander-Arnold with some confidence as the duo come into the team.
Antonio Rudiger would battle with Eder Militao for a place alongside him, and possibly offers a profile near that of Gabriel Magalhaes that could help him settle quickly. The left side will see a battle between Ferland Mendy and Fran García that the latter is currently winning.
Ancelotti’s options moving forward are plentiful but Aurelian Tchouameni and Federico Valverde could set up at the base of midfield. Though, 22-year-old Eduardo Camavinga could yet warrant a place in midfield or defence, so there are opportunities for rotation.
In attack, the team almost picks itself. Mbappe will lead the forward line, with the very capable support of Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo in behind. Not bad at all.
Real Madrid XI: Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Saliba, Rudiger, Garcia; Tchouameni, Valverde; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr; Mbappe.
Sky Sports deal
