William Saliba could look for an exit from Arsenal if he is not guaranteed regular playing time this season.
Miguel Delaney of The Independent suggests that William Saliba could still look to leave Arsenal if regular playing time is not guaranteed. There are some clubs seriously interested in the French center-back, but Mikel Arteta is likely to keep him on board.
The media continues to speculate on the future of William Saliba, despite some favorable quotes from the player during the US tour. The young Frenchman has seen questions arise about his long-term future at Arsenal, although for now he remains firmly in Arteta’s plans for the season.
After a big loan with Marseille, the French club is interested in signing him for good. However, Arsenal insist on keeping him despite rumors that the club are considering a sale, while, on the other hand, the Ligue 1 club are not in a position to pay their transfer fees.
Some outlets have even suggested that Arsenal are already looking for replacements for Saliba, with Edmond Tapsoba linked to 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 close to joining Manchester United.
🗣 William Saliba: “It makes me feel good to be back and start the preseason. I’m excited to keep 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 matches which is important “. pic.twitter.com/1UaweyRvBh
– Connor Humm (@TikiTakaConnor) July 15th
Along with Marseille, Atletico Madrid are also interested in signing the center. In the midst of this, speculation about Saliba’s future has been plentiful as there are uncertainties about his actual playing time next season. And if the stories about the signing of another Arsenal central defender are true, there will be a lot 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 final transfer away from the club if he is not guaranteed regular playing time.
However, recent comments from the 21-year-old French international suggest he might be happy to compete with those ahead. For all that has been seen at Arsenal during the pre-season, Arteta seems satisfied with Saliba’s progression and is willing to integrate the Frenchman into his plans. In addition, the new five-substitute rule and the Europa League campaign offer plenty of playing time for the 21-year-old.