Arsenal star William Saliba has addressed the reports that saw him continually linked with Real Madrid prior to striking a new contract agreement with the Gunners.

Saliba has been one of the key members of the Arsenal squad for almost three-and-a-half years now, and he has formed an impressive centre-back partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes.

The defender, who penned a new five-year contract at the Emirates Stadium in September, has made 12 appearances for the Gunners in all competitions this season, missing one Premier League match due to injury back in September.

Mikel Arteta’s side have emerged as the favourites for the Premier League title in the early months of the season, with an impressive defensive record one of the reasons behind their success.

Saliba has helped keep nine clean sheets for Arsenal so far this term, and it’s that sort of form which has helped fuel rumours that a move to Real Madrid could have been on the cards.

Also Read: Saliba: Arsenal Must Aim For Premier League Title This Season

The La Liga giants have long been credited with an interest in signing Saliba, and now the France international has addressed the past speculation.

In an interview with Telefoot (via football.london) Saliba acknowledged the rumours linking him with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu but outlined his commitment to Arsenal.

“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.

“First, win trophies, before thinking about anything else.”

Saliba is a team-mate of Mbappe with the France national team, which led to suggestions that the pair could link up at Madrid. The duo also played together during their time at the academy for AS Bondy, something which has also only led to further rumours of a potential move for Saliba in the future.

Despite this, Saliba has insisted that he only plans to be team-mates with Mbappe for France at the moment.