The media continues to speculate about the future of William Saliba, despite the favorable quotes of the player during his tour of the United States. The young Frenchman has seen questions raised over his long-term future at Arsenal, although for now, he remains firmly in Arteta’s plans for the season. After a huge loan spell at Marseille, the French club are interested in signing him permanently. However, Arsenal are insisting on keeping him despite rumors that the club are considering selling, while on the other hand, the Ligue 1 club are unable to afford his transfer fee. Some media have even suggested that Arsenal are already looking for replacements for Saliba, with Edmond Tapsoba linked with a move recently. The Bayer Leverkusen star is believed to be a target, not as a replacement for Saliba, but as an alternative to Lisandro Martinez, who is closing in on a move to Manchester United. 🗣 William Saliba: “It feels good to be back and start the pre-season. I am excited to continue training and playing in the friendlies. It’s important to be here with the fans, as well as my teammates. I hope we enjoy some good training and games that are important.” pic.twitter.com/1UaweyRvBh — Connor Humm (@TikiTakaConnor) July 15, Along with Marseille, Atletico Madrid are reportedly interested in signing the centre-back. Amidst this, speculation over Saliba’s future has been rife as uncertainty remains over his actual playing time next season. And if the stories of Arsenal signing another centre-back are accurate, there will be plenty of competition for places. The young Frenchman will likely start the season as Arteta’s third central defender behind Ben White and Gabriel Magalhaes. And according to the Independent, Saliba could request a permanent move away from the club if he is not guaranteed regular game time. However, the 21-year-old France international’s recent comments suggest he could be happy to compete with those in front of him. From everything seen in the Arsenal camp in pre-season, Arteta appears pleased with Saliba’s progress and is ready to include the Frenchman in his plans. Furthermore, the new five-substitute rule and Europa League campaign offer plenty of game time for the 21-year-old.
