Arsenal have reportedly set a €30m asking price for defender William Saliba, with the Frenchman keen on staying at Marseille.
THE LOWDOWN: KEEN TO STAY
The talented French defender has enjoyed a terrific campaign in Marseille colours this season, going to make 51 appearances across all competitions for the French outfit.
And speaking after Marseille’s emphatic 4-0 win over Strasbourg on Saturday, Saliba (via GFFN) said:
“I want to come back and play the Champions League. I have never played in it and I want to discover it here.”
The 21-year-old also spoke out about his future during a ceremony in Paris on Sunday, where he was given the award for young player of the 2021-22 season.
He said: “It’s an honour, a source of pride. I dedicate this trophy to my team-mates, my club and the supporters.
“Did I play my last match with Olympique de Marseille? I don’t know. The future will tell us.
“The most important thing is to confirm this good season by qualifying for the Champions League. Afterwards, we’ll see.”
THE LATEST: €30M PRICE TAG
According to L’Equipe, Arsenal are willing to sell William Saliba for €30m (£25.5m) in the summer transfer window.
While Arteta wishes to keep hold of the 21-year-old defender and integrate him into the squad, his insistence on regular starts may prompt the Gunners to consider a solid offer in the summer.
And according to L’Equipe, Arsenal have slapped a €30m price tag for suitors to consider.
Marseille could become the front-runners for Saliba’s signature, but their ability to match the asking price remains questioned.
THE VERDICT: PRICE TAG CHEAP
Considering the vast amount of potential the former Saint Etienne man holds, his current ability and what he could bring to Arsenal if he is guaranteed games, the reported price tag is way too cheap and the Gunners must consider raising the price in order to deter potential suitors.
No doubt about it, the French colossus, dubbed “extraordinary” by his teammate and former Gunners midfielder Matteo Guendouzi has enjoyed a sensational campaign at the Stade Veladrome picking up an impressive average score rating of 7.06 from SofaScore, becoming the fourth-best ranked player in the Marseille side.
Saliba has swiftly morphed into the complete defender during his time in Marseille and certainly has a lot to offer Mikel Arteta if he stays at the Emirates.
The £21.6m-rated colossus could become a leading Gunners centre-back for years to come so the north London outfit must think twice about selling him on the cheap.
AND in other news, Arsenal pushing to sign £49.5m-rated playmaker, KSE preparing opening £25m bid…