William Saliba private stance on Real Madrid transfer emerges after Arsenal commitment

William Saliba has told Arsenal in 'private' that he wants to stay at the club amid interest from Real Madrid.

The 23-year-old has become an integral part of Mikel Arteta's squad since returning from a successful loan spell at Marseille at the end of the 2021/22 season. He has made 38 appearances for the Gunners this term, including 26 in the Premier League where they boast the best defensive record.

Speaking in a press conference ahead of Arsenal's Champions League round of 16 second leg tie against PSV Eindhoven, Saliba reaffirmed his commitment to the Gunners and admitted he has no plans to leave the Emirates Stadium. "I want to win big things with Arsenal," Saliba said.

"If you leave this club without winning anything the fans will forget about you. I want to win big things here."

Now, it has been revealed that Saliba has confirmed to Arsenal in private that he would like to stick put for the long-term, despite significant interest from Real. Los Blancos have been linked with a move for the France international as they look to strengthen their defensive unit.

Issuing an update on Saliba's future on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano said: "William Saliba at Arsenal; a fantastic player, a fantastic defender.

"What he wanted to clarify in his press conference before the game against PSV Eindhoven is really important for Arsenal to understand the situation.

"Saliba said first of all that we are not in talks over a new deal, we had many reports that negotiations started. Negotiations didn't start but there is still two-and-a-half years left on his contract at Arsenal. It's also important that Saliba said he wanted to continue here and that is the message he is sending in public but also in private.

"He's