Mikel Arteta responds to Real Madrid’s summer interest in William Saliba

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed strong confidence that William Saliba will remain at the club beyond this summer, despite reports linking the French defender with a move to Real Madrid.

Spanish media have claimed that the La Liga giants are eyeing a potential bid for the highly-rated centre-back, but Arteta dismissed concerns about Saliba’s future, insisting the player is settled and happy in north London.

“I leave those kinds of things more for Andrea [Berta] and the club to talk about,” Arteta said. “What I’m certain about, because I have had the conversation with him, is that he’s so happy here. He wants to continue with us. What will happen in the future always depends on negotiations and processes, but I’m confident William is very happy here—and that this is where he wants to be.”

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Saliba has been one of Arsenal’s standout performers this season, forming a key part of the Gunners’ title challenge and Champions League run.

In another boost for the club, Arteta revealed that Kai Havertz could return to action before the end of the season. The Germany international has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since January, with early fears suggesting he might not play again until next season. However, the forward’s recovery has progressed well, and there is renewed hope he could feature in the final stretch of Arsenal’s campaign.

“I think so,” Arteta said when asked about Havertz’s chances of returning. “If everything goes the way it’s going at the moment and how it’s planned, he will have the chance to play a few more games this season.”

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Arteta also confirmed that midfielder Jorginho is edging closer to a return from the injury that has kept him out for several weeks.

Arsenal are preparing to host Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday evening in a crucial Premier League fixture. A win would virtually secure their qualification for next season’s Champions League, but Arteta warned his players not to be distracted by the looming second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain, who hold a 1–0 aggregate lead.

“The only thing we can control is our performance and our emotional state,” said Arteta. “There are still a lot of things we want to achieve in the Premier League.”

With key players close to returning and European dreams still alive, Arteta will be hoping his squad maintains focus as the season reaches its defining moments.

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