Before it became public knowledge that Arsenal had secured an agreement to keep William Saliba at the club for the next five seasons, Real Madrid had already realised he was no longer a realistic target.The Spanish giants had been monitoring the French defender for several seasons, waiting for the right opportunity to make an approach. With Saliba entering the final 18 months of his contract at Arsenal, Madrid were seriously considering launching their move. The situation appeared to be tilting in their favour until developments in North London took them by surprise.Saliba’s Commitment to ArsenalSaliba ultimately decided to renew his contract with Arsenal, motivated by his happiness at the club and his desire to continue playing in North London. According to Defensa Central, his agent communicated directly with Madrid during the week to confirm that an extension had been agreed.This revelation reportedly shocked the Spanish side, who had been confident that they would eventually secure his services at the end of the season. Madrid, a club accustomed to attracting the world’s top players, had not expected Saliba to reject the possibility of a move to the Bernabéu in favour of remaining at the Emirates.The decision demonstrates Saliba’s satisfaction with the progress Arsenal have made under Mikel Arteta. The defender’s commitment ensures stability at the heart of the Gunners’ back line and signals his faith in the club’s project. For Arsenal supporters, the news offers reassurance that one of their most important players has chosen loyalty and ambition in North London over the lure of one of Europe’s most decorated clubs.Saliba (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)Madrid Left SurprisedThe timing of the announcement appears to have unsettled Madrid, who are preparing for an important fixture this weekend. The report claims that the news left them in shock, given their longstanding belief that they could tempt Saliba to Spain.For many observers, it would not have been surprising if the Frenchman had opted to join Madrid, a club with unrivalled prestige and resources. Yet his decision to remain in England underlines Arsenal’s growing stature and competitiveness at the highest level.__________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, please contact us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsHow Real Madrid reacted to the news that Saliba will extend his Arsenal deal27 September 2025, 10:00Newcastle welcome key man back in training ahead of Arsenal match27 September 2025, 9:00Club happy Arsenal does not have a recall clause in their loanee’s deal26 September 2025, 23:00The post How Real Madrid reacted to the news that Saliba will extend his Arsenal deal appeared first on Just Arsenal News.