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William Saliba has opened up about past speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid, admitting the thought of joining the Spanish giants was 'tempting'.
Saliba's stellar performances for Arsenal in recent years has helped propel the club to become consistent Premier League title challengers - with the 24-year-old forming a formidable centre-back partnership with Gabriel.
The Gunners have finished second in the top flight in each of the last three seasons and are current favourites to win the league this campaign as they sit six points clear at the top after 10 matches.
Across all competitions so far this season, Saliba has helped Arsenal keep nine clean sheets - highlighting why the likes of Real Madrid were reported suitors.
Saliba committed his long-term future to north London by signing a new five-year contact at Arsenal in September, but speaking about Real's interest he did admit it was 'tempting'.
Speaking ahead of the Gunners' Champions League trip to Slavia Prague on Tuesday, he told Telefoot: '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.
Arsenal defender William Saliba has revealed that he was 'tempted' to join Real Madrid
Real were among Saliba's reported suitors before he signed a new five-year Arsenal deal
Eduardo Camavinga is one of a few of Saliba's France team-mates who plays for Real Madrid
'First, win trophies, before thinking about anything else.'
A key figure for club and country, Saliba has a lot of France team-mates in the Real Madrid squad such as Kylian Mbappe, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni. However, the connection with those players will remain solely at international level, he stressed.
'No, no, the Bondy connection is with the French national team, for now,' Saliba clarified when asked about the possibility of joining Mbappe at Madrid next season.
Upon signing his new contract with Arsenal, Saliba expressed his delight at extending stay at the Emirates Stadium.
'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 at the time: '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.'
