Andrea Berta - Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal are moving to secure the long-term future of star defender William Saliba, with sporting director Andrea Berta reportedly preparing a lucrative five-year contract offer.
According to Foot Mercato, the Gunners have tabled a proposal that would keep the French international at the Emirates Stadium until June 2029.
Negotiations are ongoing, with Arsenal hopeful of a swift agreement despite strong interest from European giants, including Real Madrid.
Saliba, who joined Arsenal from Saint-Étienne for £27 million in 2019, has become one of the most authoritative centre-backs in world football.
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Since breaking into the first team, the 23-year-old has made 137 appearances and scored seven goals, playing a pivotal role in Arsenal’s recent push for the Premier League title.
The defender’s current contract runs until 2027, but Arsenal are keen to avoid the risk of him entering the final year of his deal.
Reports also suggest that the proposed extension would come with a significant pay rise, boosting his salary beyond the £200,000-per-week mark.
The club’s urgency reflects not only Saliba’s importance to Mikel Arteta’s plans but also the mounting external interest in his signature.
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Arsenal view him as central to their long-term project and are determined to ward off potential suitors by securing his commitment early.
William Saliba
Arsenal defender William Saliba. ( Photo credit: Getty images)
Saliba is currently sidelined with an ankle injury but is expected to return to action in October.
Arsenal will hope to finalise the deal before then, cementing his role as a cornerstone of their defence for years to come and ward off interest from other European big wigs who will like come for the services of the impressive star again.
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