Arsenal’s links with Kylian Mbappe could come back to haunt Mikel Arteta in a way he never expected in the transfer market.
The Frenchman has impressed throughout his career, rising from AS Monaco to PSG and then Real Madrid in the most recent switch.
The final of those moves could’ve been so different though, as Arsenal were linked with a move for Mbappe, albeit an unlikely one.
Viewed as one of the best in the world, the 26-year-old could have helped solve issues on the left wing and at centre-forward – though how he would fit into the squad financially is unclear.
While it may prove to be a deal that got away, Mbappe could now make Arsenal pay with a surprise switch for one star.
Kylian Mbappe could influence William Saliba to Real Madrid transfer
Playing for Arsenal and Real Madrid is a path that a few former players have walked in the past, with Mesut Ozil a prime example of someone who can impress both.
The latest who could follow in adding Los Blancos to his CV is William Saliba, who has been linked with a transfer to Real Madrid.
It has been claimed that Saliba is open to joining Real Madrid, in a potential world-record fee move.
While it remains to be seen whether the Spanish giants will put that money forward in the summer, there is another complication.
According to Sky Sports in Switzerland, Saliba is strongly thinking about joining up with his old friend Mbappe at Real Madrid.
- READ MORE: What Kylian Mbappe has said about William Saliba as Arsenal star linked with Real Madrid transfer
The pair grew up in Bondy, France, where they both played football for the same team at a young age – though there is a two-year gap between them.
The pull of Real Madrid, plus the enticing idea of playing with a close friend, could be enough to tip the scales against Arsenal in trying to keep the centre-back.
What Mikel Arteta has said about Kylian Mbappe to Arsenal transfer
While the Saliba saga drags on, there may be some frustration in the fact that they could’ve kept the defender and have Mbappe in their ranks.
It was something Mikel Arteta discussed back in early 2024, before the forward made the free transfer switch to Real Madrid.
He told the press: “When there is a player of that calibre, we always have to be in the conversation.
“But as you said, it looks in a different way, shall we say?”
In the end, Arsenal weren’t quite in the conversation or close to making a deal stick for Mbappe, which could now end up being a costly mistake.
It remains to be seen whether Saliba will make the switch to Real Madrid, but his international teammate and friend could have a large say in proceedings.
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