In a recent interview with Caught Offside, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano stated that Arsenal are set to open contract talks with William Saliba this summer. Romano said,
“Arsenal have always intended to keep William Saliba at the club next season and that is still the club’s plan.
“Marseille have tried to approach Arsenal for Saliba but it is not a negotiation that is proceeding because Mikel Arteta wants Saliba in next year’s squad, in fact, I’m told that Marseille are already targeting other players.
“Arsenal will also try to negotiate a new contract with Saliba, while Ajax’s Martinez is a player considered useful in several positions – he is very versatile and that’s why he’s so appreciated.”
Saliba’s Decent Loan Spell In French Football Last Season
Saliba had a decent loan spell at Olympique Marseille in the previous campaign after he managed to establish himself as a prominent presence at the centre of their defence. The five-time France international appeared in 52 matches for the French club last season in multiple competitions.
The 21-year-old was a rock at the back for Marseille as he averaged 1.5 tackles, 1.3 interceptions and 2.2 clearances per 90 minutes in Ligue 1. He was even excellent when interchanging possession with his teammates from the back, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 93.1% in the French top-flight (stats via whoscored).
Arsenal Set To Open Contract Talks With Saliba: Good Move For Both Parties?
Saliba is a solid tackler of the ball and can earn possession back for his team inside his half. He is quick to spot the danger and can step up to clear the danger when needed. The Bondy-born defensive ace can use his strong 1.92m frame to dominate the opposition in the air.
The France international is also proficient at playing his way out from the back but is still quite inexperienced at the highest level.
Still, Saliba has the potential to become a real success story at the Emirates Stadium if Mikel Arteta is willing to put his fate on the youngster. Hence, Arsenal‘s decision to open contract talks with the French whizkid will be a good move for both the player and the North London club in the long run.
