Soccer Football - Champions League - Quarter Final - Second Leg - Real Madrid v Arsenal - Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain - April 16, 2025 Arsenal's William Saliba celebrates after the match REUTERS/Susana Vera
(Reuters) -Centre back William Saliba has committed his future to Arsenal by signing a new long-term contract, the Premier League club said on Tuesday, following media reports that Real Madrid had shown interest in the Frenchman.
Saliba has formed a formidable partnership with Brazilian Gabriel Magalhaes at the heart of the Arsenal defence, making 140 appearances in all competitions since his 2019 move from French club St Etienne.
The 24-year-old France international's new contract will run until 2030, British media reported.
"William is loved by all the players and staff, and that speaks volumes about his character, commitment and attitude every day," Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said in a statement.
"Since joining us, William has grown so much, embraced responsibility, and has created a strong connection with our supporters and everyone at the club.
Arsenal have finished runners-up in the last three Premier League seasons, with their league title drought now stretching to 21 years.
They recruited heavily in the close season, signing Sweden striker Viktor Gyokeres, England forwards Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze, and Spanish defender Cristhian Mosquera.
(Reporting by Pearl Josephine Nazare in Bengaluru, editing by Ed Osmond)
