Arsenal set to reward William Saliba for stellar loan form

Premier League outfit Arsenal are ready to reward on-loan defender William Saliba with a new contract, according to reports.

Gifted stopper Saliba is of course currently in the midst of his third successive loan spell away from the Emirates.

Despite having been signed in the summer of 2019 amid widespread fanfare, the 20-year-old is yet to convince those in a position of power at his parent club of his readiness to feature on a consistent basis in the Premier League.

In turn, after returning from an altogether impressive spell with OGC Nice over the 2nd half of last season, it was decided during the summer that yet another move back to his home country would benefit Saliba best over the campaign ahead.

The Frenchman linked up with Ligue 1 heavyweights Olympique Marseille, and has since not looked back.

Saliba has been widely lauded for his efforts at the heart of OM’s backline over the course of the term to date, displaying a complete repertoire of ability in the tackle, explosive athleticism and composure in possession.

All told, he has been afforded starts in all but one of the club’s league fixtures, helping Marseille to a spot in 3rd place in the Ligue 1 table as things stand.

Arsenal set to reward William Saliba for stellar loan form

NICE, FRANCE – AUGUST 22: William Saliba of Marseille during the Ligue 1 match between OGC Nice (OGCN) and Olympique de Marseille (OM) at Allianz Riviera Stadium on August 22, 2021 in Nice, France. (Photo by John Berry/Getty Images)

Gunners stand firm

Amid his starring stint in the south of France, however, speculation, of course, has continued to swirl surrounding just what may be next for Saliba.

Despite Mikel Arteta having hinted at a place in his plans for the defender late in October, the stellar partnership being fostered by Ben White and Gabriel Magalhaes means that regular game-time could well prove difficult to come by at Arsenal once again in 2022/23.

As alluded to above, though, if the latest word stemming from the media is anything to go by, then Saliba certainly appears to play a part in the long-term vision on the red half of north London.

As per a report from French outlet But Football, the Gunners brass are ready to open contract talks with their young defender, over extending his terms with the club.

This comes with Arteta and co. having been sufficiently impressed with Saliba’s efforts thus far this season to confirm his readiness to contribute back at the club.

Interestingly, though, it is also noted that, should the Frenchman himself refuse to commit to a new deal, then Arsenal will not be against the prospect of a sale, amid rumoured interest on the part of Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Arsenal to offer William Saliba new long-term deal to fend off Real Madrid transfer interest after Marseille loan t.co/9mnx0NzBVA
— The Sun – Arsenal (@SunArsenal) February 26, 2022