Arsenal are edging closer to agreeing a new long-term contract with William Saliba, which would see the Frenchman join Bukayo Saka as one of the club’s highest earners, Sporting News understands.
The 24-year-old centre-back signed his current deal in 2023 but will be entering the final two years of that agreement at the end of the current season.
New sporting director Andrea Berta has made retaining Saliba one of his top priorities, with manager Mikel Arteta determined to secure the futures of the team’s most important players as part of the club’s long-term project.
Saliba’s importance to Arsenal has grown considerably since breaking into the first team in 2022 following his loan spells in France.
His composure on the ball, aerial dominance and reading of the game have made him a cornerstone of the Gunners’ defensive unit, which has been among the best in the Premier League over the past two campaigns.
His central defensive partner Gabriel Magalhaes committed his future to the club earlier this summer, signing a new contract in June that runs until 2029.
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The Brazilian’s extension was another key step for Arsenal tying down their best players and now Saliba is expected to be next.
Real Madrid have been linked with the France international in recent monthss, but Saliba has consistently reiterated his happiness in north London.
“I’m really happy here. I’ve been here for two and a half years. There is nothing. I’m happy here and I want to continue here,” he said earlier this year.
Ahead of last season’s Champions League clash with PSV, Saliba also outlined his ambition to win trophies with Arsenal.
“If you leave this club without winning anything, the fans will forget about you. I want to win big things here.”
Meanwhile, summer signing Martin Zubimendi admitted it was important for Arsenal to end their pre-season on a high after the 3-0 win over Athletic Club in the Emirates Cup.
“It was an important game because we came from two defeats. It’s true that they were friendlies, but this club doesn’t understand defeats in any context, so it was an important game to win and start the pre-season with a good feeling.
“The truth is that this team has to adapt to all contexts, whether it’s losing or winning, with the aim of winning above all. Let’s hope we can get through these types of games and do great things.
“It’s a good end to pre-season, but the best is yet to come. In the end, the league is the league. We like to compete; we like to win. I’m very happy that it’s starting now.”
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