William Saliba's Real Madrid transfer admission as Arsenal star sends Kylian Mbappe message

William Saliba's impressive form at Arsenal led to continued rumours of a potential transfer to Real Madrid, but the Gunners defender quashed those links by signing a new contract

Arsenal star William Saliba has addressed the reports that saw him continually linked with Real Madrid prior to striking a new contract agreement with the Gunners.

Saliba has been one of the key members of the Arsenal squad for almost three-and-a-half years now, and he has formed an impressive centre-back partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes.

The defender, who penned a new five-year contract at the Emirates Stadium in September, has made 12 appearances for the Gunners in all competitions this season, missing one Premier League match due to injury back in September.

Mikel Arteta's side have emerged as the favourites for the Premier League title in the early months of the season, with an impressive defensive record one of the reasons behind their success.

Saliba has helped keep nine clean sheets for Arsenal so far this term, and it's that sort of form which has helped fuel rumours that a move to Real Madrid could have been on the cards.

The La Liga giants have long been credited with an interest in signing Saliba, and now the France international has addressed the past speculation.

In an interview with French media, Saliba acknowledged the rumours linking him with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu but outlined his commitment to Arsenal.

“Of course, it’s always tempting when a club like that tries to lure you, but for me, [my desire] was to stay at Arsenal," said Saliba in an interview with Telefoot.

"First, win trophies, before thinking about anything else."

Saliba is a team-mate of Mbappe with the France national team, which led to suggestions that the pair could link up at Madrid. The duo also played together during their time at the academy for AS Bondy, something which has also only led to further rumours of a potential move for Saliba in the future.

Despite this, Saliba has insisted that he only plans to be team-mates with Mbappe for France at the moment.

“No, no, the Bondy connection is with the French national team, for now," said Saliba, when asked if he could be a team-mate of Mbappe's at Madrid next season.

It remains to be seen if Arsenal will go on to play Real Madrid this season, with the only potential meeting coming in the knockout or play-off rounds of the Champions League if they are drawn to face each other.