In a significant boost to Arsenal’s defensive lineup, William Saliba, the talented French centre-back, has pledged his future to the Gunners by signing a new long-term deal. The agreement was finalized on Friday, further solidifying Arsenal’s ambitions of challenging for the Premier League title in the upcoming season.
Reportedly, Saliba, who played a crucial role in Arsenal’s unexpected title challenge last season, has agreed to a four-year contract valued at £10 million ($13 million) per season. The new deal underscores the club’s recognition of his immense talent and the indispensable role he plays within the team.
Last season, a back injury to the 22-year-old defender contributed significantly to a dip in form for Mikel Arteta’s side, ultimately allowing Manchester City to retain their Premier League crown. However, the Gunners’ manager expressed his delight at securing Saliba’s services for the long term.
“To have William extend his contract with us was something we have wanted to do for a long time,” said Arteta. “William proved last season just how good and how important he is to our squad. The ability he has at his young age of just 22 is exciting, and there is, of course, so much more room for development with any player at this stage of their career.”
Saliba arrived at Arsenal in 2019 from Saint-Etienne for a fee of £27 million, signing a contract that had only one year remaining. However, due to loan spells at Saint-Etienne, Nice, and Marseille over the past three seasons, he spent limited time at the Emirates Stadium. Notably, his impressive performances during his loan spell at Marseille earned him a call-up to the French national team, and he was part of the squad that reached the World Cup final in Qatar last year.
Saliba’s contract extension follows recent renewals by his teammates Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Aaron Ramsdale, reflecting Arsenal’s commitment to securing their key talents for the future. The Gunners are keen to strengthen their squad even further, with rumors suggesting imminent arrivals that could significantly bolster their title aspirations.
In recent developments, Arsenal has already secured the services of Kai Havertz from Chelsea in a staggering £65 million deal. The club is also reportedly closing in on additional signings, namely Declan Rice from West Ham and Jurrien Timber from Ajax. These potential acquisitions are seen as critical moves in Arsenal’s quest to claim the English top-flight title for the first time in two decades.
As Arsenal fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, the recommitment of William Saliba stands as a testament to the club’s determination to build a formidable squad capable of challenging the Premier League’s elite.
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