Saliba quits for Real Madrid as Man City poach Saka – Arsenal's nightmare transfer window

Arsenal have made a promising start to the summer window, with the Gunners said to be closing in on the signing of Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori. However, there is still plenty of time for things to go pear-shaped before the new Premier League campaign gets underway.

Express Sport looks at the worst-case scenario for Arsenal this summer, with William Saliba able to throw their plans into disarray…

William Saliba quits for Real Madrid

Saliba was one of Arsenal’s best players last season and has firmly established himself among the finest central defenders in Europe. His steady improvement is thought to be attracting interest from elsewhere, with Real Madrid said to be keen on bringing him to the Bernabeu.

Those in power at the Emirates Stadium are worried that Saliba will not be an Arsenal player for much longer, according to GiveMeSport. A move to Real Madrid would certainly be a huge blow for the Gunners, who would be left scrambling to replace him ahead of the new season.

Man City poach Bukayo Saka

Bukayo Saka has three years remaining on his current deal but interest from Manchester City has reportedly forced Arsenal to take action. The Gunners are planning to hold extension talks with their star winger in the hope of preventing a move to the Etihad Stadium, according to CaughtOffside.

City are known to be long-term admirers of Saka, while the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have previously been linked with his signature. He has never shown a willingness to leave Arsenal, but the likelihood of winning more trophies elsewhere could be tempting if any offers are made.

Arsenal have grown reliant on Saka to provide the goods in the final third, especially given their lack of alternative options on the right flank. A summer exit would give the north Londoners a massive hole to fill and could risk derailing their hopes of mounting a renewed title challenge.

Seven players refuse to leave

Arsenal are known to be looking to sell a number of fringe players to make way for some new arrivals. The likes of Aaron Ramsdale, Jakub Kiwior, Eddie Nketiah, Emile Smith Rowe, Reiss Nelson, Fabio Vieira and Nuno Tavares have all been tipped to depart the Emirates Stadium this summer.

However, it will cause problems for Arsenal if they refuse to leave, with player power capable of disrupting deals even if terms have been agreed. Fringe players staying put would make it harder for the Gunners to recruit new faces, while it would also prevent them from slashing their growing wage bill.