Arsenal defender William Saliba was asked about progress on a new contract after the Gunners beat Newcastle 3-2 in Singapore as their preparations for the new season continue

Arsenal defender William Saliba has claimed that he hopes to sign an extension with the club sooner rather than later amid links to Real Madrid.

But Saliba’s future has been the subject of some speculation in recent months, with the centre-back attracting strong interest from La Liga giants Madrid. A recent report from Cadena SER suggested Saliba had been placed at the top of Madrid’s wishlist in what has been dubbed ‘Operation 2026’.