Arsenal’s William Saliba has been the subject of interest for Marseille but according to Fabrizio Romano, he isn’t going anywhere.
The French club are really eager to bring him back next season and as per the recent stories, they are also willing to sign him on a permanent deal.
Marseille thought Arsenal will allow Saliba to move out on yet another loan deal but since that is not happening they are now ready to pay around £20-25 million for the central defender.
However, Romano has made it clear that Mikel Arteta has no real intention of sending the youngster out once again.
He wrote on Twitter: “William Saliba situation. Rumours on loan move are wide of mark, Arsenal board and Mikel Arteta both count on Saliba as part of the team for next season.
“Been told situation could only change in case of crazy bid. Arsenal trust him – keen on discussing a new contract.”
William Saliba situation. Rumours on loan move are wide of mark, Arsenal board and Mikel Arteta both count on Saliba as part of the team for next season. ⚪️🔴 #AFC
Been told situation could only change in case of crazy bid. Arsenal trust him – keen on discussing a new contract. pic.twitter.com/HdelHSWimu
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 27, 2022
Can Marseille convince Arsenal to sell William Saliba?
£20-25 million is not even close to being a ‘crazy bid’ so we don’t think William Saliba is going to head out this summer.
The defender had initially shown an intention to return to Marseille but now he is set to return to Arsenal’s pre-season camp and prove his worth to the manager.
He has huge potential, as seen last season, but at the Emirates Stadium, he will have to fight for his place very ferociously. Currently, Ben White, Gabriel and Rob Holding are all above him in the pecking order.
If William Saliba fails to get consistent game time then it will definitely be a blow for the 21-year-old’s development but Arsenal need defensive depth if they really want to push for a Champions League spot next season.
