Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, is cautious of Real Madrid’s interest in acquiring centre-back William Saliba and has reportedly increased efforts to negotiate a contract extension with the French player.

Saliba’s current contract is set to expire in 2027, and Madrid have targeted the 24-year-old, employing their typical transfer tactic by making discreet contacts to try to persuade Saliba to decline an extension and move to Spain. They envision a discounted deal in 2026 or a free move in 2027.

Though Saliba has publicly dismissed prospects of departing Arsenal, supporters understand that nothing is assured until the centre-back conclusively signs a new contract. L’Equipe mentions that Berta is also aware of this.

Berta, familiar with Madrid’s transfer strategy from his 12 years on the other side of the city with Atletico, fears the Spanish side are quietly working to convince Saliba to leave the club – an approach with brought Kylian Mbappe last summer and is expected to see Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold arrive this year – and has leapt into action.

In the past few days, Berta is understood to have spoken regularly with Saliba’s representatives, attempting to counter Madrid’s seduction and arrange a contract extension.

Berta intends to reach an agreement with Saliba as soon as possible, before Madrid can make any real progress in their bid to sign the defender.

Contract talks are likely to be a significant part of Berta’s first summer as Arsenal’s sporting director. The Italian also wants to keep versatile forward Leandro Trossard, whose deal expires in 2026, but there are plenty of other important players approaching the final two years of their contracts this summer.

Alongside Saliba, Arsenal must address the futures of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli. Striker Gabriel Jesus, who is sidelined with a serious knee injury, is also out of contract until 2027.