Real Madrid ready to spend ‘big money’ on Arsenal star Mikel Arteta can’t live without

Real Madrid are ready to raid Arsenal for one of Mikel Arteta’s star players, it has been claimed.

The Spanish giants are said to be keen on improving their defensive options, amid persistent injury concerns to Eder Militao and David Alaba.

In turn, Spanish publication Fichajes have claimed that signing a top quality central defender is a priority for Los Blancos.

Moreover, Real have allegedly identified Arsenal’s William Saliba as a target and would be willing to pay big money to lure him away from north London.

Saliba has established himself as one of the world’s best defenders in the past three season, and has been central to Arsenal's transition from top-four hopefuls to genuine title challengers.

Last month, however, Saliba reiterated his commitment to Arsenal.

Saliba said: "Yeah of course, I feel at home. I signed for the club five years ago but it's only my third season and I'm enjoying everything - the players, the staff and the fans. I feel at home so of course, why not?"

Saliba’s talents have seen him receive praise from Arsenal icons and opposition players alike.

Indeed, Virgil van Dijk, who some consider to be the best defender in the world, admitting he was "nowhere near" as good as the Frenchman when he was his age.

Arsenal defender William Saliba pictured (Image: Getty)

Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, Van Dijk said: "Obviously, Saliba's making very good steps at the moment. He's the first one I just have in mind now. He's a solid one. I think in possession, he's doing a good job."

When asked by Ferdinand if Saliba reminded Van Dijk of himself, the Liverpool defender added: "Yeah, maybe. I think, if I'm honest, when I was that age, I was nowhere near where he was today. Obviously, that's the beauty of football as well."

Meanwhile, former Arsenal star Thomas Vermaelen told the Arsenal website last year: “He’s a great player. He has everything a modern defender needs to have – he’s quick, he’s a great defender, he’s good on the ball.

“He has a great partnership with Gabriel as well which is very important. They’re doing an amazing job.”