Huge boost for Mikel Arteta as Arsenal star pens new long-term contract amid Real Madrid interest

William Saliba has signed a new five-year deal at Arsenal.

The 24-year-old had been in contract negotiations with the north London club since May with his contract set to expire in the summer of 2027.

Real Madrid were interested in the centre back, raising speculation over whether the Frenchman would look to leave.

Those concerns are now over. Saliba has become an integral figure for Mikel Arteta and recognised as one of the world's best centre backs.

He was named in the PFA Team of the Year in each of the last three seasons, helping the Gunners achieve a second-place finish in the league in three consecutive years.

Saliba signed for Arsenal in 2019 from Saint-Etienne.

On the deal, he said: ‘I’m happy here, that’s it. I want to win big things with Arsenal.

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

‘I want to be one day the best defender in the world. I know I have to work a lot and to win trophies as well — but that’s my dream.’

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said: 'William is loved by all the players and staff, and that speaks volumes about his character, commitment and attitude every day.

'Since joining us, William has grown so much, embraced responsibility, and has created a strong connection with our supporters and everyone at the club.

'We know there is still so much to come from him and will continue to work together to keep improving with the clear ambition of winning major trophies.'

Sporting director Andrea Berta added: ‘We’re so happy that William has committed his future to us to be part of what we’re building here.

'In the last three seasons, William has become an incredible defender whose composure, intelligence and physical presence make him one of the best in the world. He will continue his development with Arsenal to reach new heights.'