According to a recent report by L’Equipe (via the Metro), Saint-Etienne has rejected Arsenal’s opening bid for William Saliba which has boosted Tottenham Hotspur’s chances of landing the player during the ongoing summer transfer window. The same source has also stated that the Gunners have tabled a €23m offer plus €7m in bonuses for the French talent, but the Ligue 1 outfit are asking for €30m up front which gives Spurs an advantage in pursuit of the French defender this summer.
William Saliba’s Rapid Emergence In French Football
The Bondy born defensive ace grew up playing in the colours of Saint-Etienne before breaking out as a first-team starter last year. He has thrived at the senior level and has put in a string of commanding performances at the heart of Jean-Louis Gasset’s backline in the previous campaign.
The Ligue 1 centre-back played in 19 matches for Saint-Etienne in the last term, but he is yet to open his goal-scoring account for his club. On the defensive end, the French whizkid made an average of 2.0 tackles, 1.8 interceptions and 2.7 clearances per match in the top level of French football last season (Stats via Whoscored).
Saliba has the potential to be a world-class central defender, but he would need to secure regular first-team chances next season if he intends to develop as a player and fulfil his true potential.
What Will The Saint-Etienne Wonderkid Add To Pochettino’s Side?
Saliba is quick and agile enough to chase down the opposition attackers, especially when left isolated in 1v1 situations. He can read the game well and has a high Football IQ, which allows him to make a lot of timely interceptions for his team. However, the jury is still out on whether he would be able to cope with the physical toll of English football.
The Ligue 1 starlet needs to hit the gym and develop a strong upper body so that he has enough strength to get the better of his opponents on the field.
Why Spurs Need To Sign Him This Summer
The North London outfit will be taking a risk if they opt for a player who has not proven himself at the top level. However, Saliba has remarkable potential, which is why Spurs should try everything in their power to recruit him this summer.
He will undoubtedly bolster Pochettino’s defensive options at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in a few years’ time. But for now, he is nowhere near ready to feature for Spurs in the Premier League next season on a consistent basis. Hence, if Saliba agrees to play a bit-part role, then Tottenham should sign him without thinking twice about it. Otherwise, it would be better to get him off their shortlist and opt for a suitable alternative in the summer transfer market.
