Mbappé Intervenes in Transfer War! Real Madrid’s New Weapon: William Saliba

Madrid – Kylian Mbappé has only just arrived at Real Madrid, but the French superstar is already flexing his influence behind the scenes. According to sources close to the club, Mbappé played a key role in initiating talks that could bring Arsenal’s defensive rock William Saliba to the Santiago Bernabéu this summer.

The report comes amid growing speculation that Real Madrid are preparing a bold move for Saliba, viewing the 23-year-old center-back as the ideal long-term partner for Éder Militão and a crucial reinforcement following the club’s defensive struggles late in the season.

A French Connection Reignited

Mbappé and Saliba have a close relationship from their time together with the French national team. Insiders claim that Mbappé personally reached out to Saliba to discuss the possibility of joining him at Real Madrid—touting the club’s vision for the future and the chance to win trophies together at the highest level.

“Mbappé doesn’t just want to be a goalscorer—he wants to help shape the team,” said a Madrid-based journalist familiar with the situation. “He sees Saliba as a key piece of the puzzle. He told the board, ‘If we want to dominate Europe, we need William.’”

This level of player-driven recruitment is not unprecedented, but it highlights Mbappé’s growing role as a cultural and tactical leader at the club—even before playing a single minute in a Real Madrid shirt.

Arsenal’s Reluctance and Madrid’s Determination

Arsenal, for their part, are determined to keep Saliba, who has become a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta’s back line. However, Real Madrid are reportedly preparing a substantial offer that could test the Gunners’ resolve—believed to be in the range of €80 million.

With Nacho Fernández leaving and Antonio Rüdiger under criticism after a turbulent campaign, the need for defensive reinforcements in Madrid is pressing. Saliba, known for his composure, athleticism, and distribution, fits the profile of a modern Madrid center-back.

“Florentino Pérez wants to build a new dynasty at Madrid,” a Spanish transfer insider reported. “And with Mbappé already in white, bringing in a fellow Frenchman like Saliba adds both quality and chemistry.”

Mbappé’s Growing Influence at the Club

Mbappé’s alleged involvement in the Saliba pursuit further cements his status as more than just a superstar forward—he is fast becoming a figure of influence in the club’s future strategy.

Some in the Spanish media have compared his role to that of Cristiano Ronaldo in his prime years at the club, when he often gave his opinion on player recruitment and squad building.

“He’s not afraid to speak up,” one club source reportedly said. “Mbappé knows what kind of team he wants around him, and he’s not shy about pushing for it.”

What Comes Next?

Negotiations between Real Madrid and Arsenal are said to be in preliminary stages, but with the summer transfer window fast approaching, things could move quickly—especially if Saliba himself is open to the idea.

Mbappé’s involvement could prove to be the deciding factor. For a club looking to reclaim its dominance in both Spain and Europe, securing Saliba would be a major signal of intent—and Mbappé may have already lit the fuse.