Arsenal’s expected pursuit of critical reinforcements in the upcoming summer transfer window is well underway as boss Mikel Arteta and club technical director Edu Gaspar hope to remain on course to continue in their efforts to challenge Premier League juggernaut Manchester City.
The feelings of frustration and what could have been that surround the immediate aftermath of the Gunners letting their lead at the top slip before watching Pep Guardiola’s machine secure their fifth league title in six seasons are a massive motivating factor for the north London side to add the requisite quality to the senior side to allow them to reload for another title challenge, while also remaining competitive in their return to the Champions League.
One key aspect of that challenge hopefully becoming a reality that sees Arsenal finally lift the Premier League trophy once again comes by way of the presence of French international starlet William Saliba.
The 22-year-old Bondy-born defender has fast become one of the top defenders in England after what has been a sublime first full season at the Emirates in the wake of multiple impressive spells in Ligue 1. It was perhaps no surprise that his absence at the tail-end of the 2022-23 season was in conjunction with the club’s inability to sustain their level of performance at the back, offering proof that his presence in the team is of critical importance both now, and in the future.
As such, talks are underway between the Gunners and the player regarding his much-needed contract extension, but reports of a potential impasse emerged earlier today after suggestions that Saliba could be on his way out during the summer after the club had failed to meet his wage demands.
Understand that the reported £120k per week offer made to William Saliba is NOT the most recent number discussed between the club and the defender’s people.
— Harry Symeou (@HarrySymeou) May 31, 2023
Initial reports detailed that Arsenal had levied a package worth £120k-per-week, which some have immediately questioned given the notion that Eddie Nketiah is on only £20k-per-week less despite being a depth option while not having nearly as prominent a role in the team.
Given the gravity of what is at stake for the club, and the raises in wages that have been received by a number of the club’s recently extended star names, Saliba should undoubtedly be in line for the same.
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