Kylian Mbappé has reportedly expressed his desire to see a French international join Real Madrid. This request comes as the Madrid club prepares for the 2025 summer transfer market with clear objectives, including signing a central defender to strengthen their squad.
Real Madrid's management, led by Florentino Pérez, has already established a roadmap for the 2025 summer transfer market. The club, which has always aimed for excellence, wants to reinforce its team with signings deemed "essential." Among the identified priorities, signing a central defender appears to be a pressing need.
Carlo Ancelotti faces a personnel shortage in this area, complicating team management. Among potential targets, Castello Lukeba, the 22-year-old French central defender from RB Leipzig, stands out. Lukeba has impressed with his performances in the Bundesliga and could bring defensive solidity to Real Madrid. However, his transfer would be costly, estimated at around 90 million euros, exceeding the 50 million euros the Madrid club wants to invest in a central defender this summer.
Mbappé Suggests William Saliba to Real Madrid
Faced with this situation, Real Madrid's sporting management has developed several "plan B" options to avoid failure regarding Lukeba. Another name on this list is William Saliba, who could integrate perfectly into the team. Saliba, currently under contract with Arsenal, has demonstrated his qualities in the Premier League. His versatility and ability to play under pressure make him an ideal candidate for the Spanish club.
According to Defensa Central, Kylian Mbappé has already expressed his desire to see Saliba join Real Madrid. Their friendship, which dates back to their training days at Bondy, strengthens this connection. Mbappé considers Saliba not only an excellent player but also a close friend. His presence in the team could also improve the morale of the 2018 World Cup champion, a factor not to be underestimated in a dressing room where cohesion is essential.
However, Arsenal's financial demands complicate the situation. Saliba's transfer is estimated at 100 million euros, twice what Real Madrid is willing to spend on a central defender this summer. These financial differences distance the Gunner from the Madrid club, making the operation complex.
William Saliba's Clear Stance on Real Madrid's Interest
Despite Real Madrid's and other European clubs' interest, William Saliba has stated that he feels at home at the Emirates Stadium. The French defender expressed his satisfaction with his role at Arsenal and declared his determination to stay with the club for many years. The former Marseille player also emphasized the importance of stability in his career. At just 23 years old, he wants to continue progressing and evolving in a framework where he feels supported.
This stance could further complicate Real Madrid's ambitions, which must navigate a competitive and often unpredictable transfer market.