Arsenal are reportedly prepared to elevate William Saliba, a French defender with Cameroonian heritage, to one of the club’s top earners in a bid to fend off interest from European giants Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Saliba, who has been instrumental in Arsenal’s defensive lineup, currently has a contract extending until 2027.
Saliba’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid’s chief scout, Juni Calafat, attending the North London derby to assess him firsthand. The 23-year-old’s consistent displays have solidified his reputation as one of Europe’s premier defenders.
In response to the mounting interest, Arsenal’s management is keen to secure Saliba’s long-term commitment by offering a contract that reflects his value to the team. This move aims to deter potential suitors and ensure stability within the squad.
Saliba’s journey with Arsenal began in 2019 when he was signed from Saint-Étienne for £27 million. Following loan spells back to Saint-Étienne, Nice, and Marseille, he integrated into Arsenal’s first team in August 2022. Since then, he has formed a formidable partnership with Gabriel Magalhães, contributing significantly to Arsenal’s defensive strength.
The club’s proactive approach to renegotiating Saliba’s contract underscores their recognition of his importance and their desire to maintain a competitive edge in domestic and European competitions.
