Newcastle United became the latest side linked with Willian Saliba, despite Mikel Arteta confirming the defender will return to the club.
According to French journalist Fabrice Hawkins, Newcastle United have joined the list of clubs keeping tabs on William Saliba. The French defender is set to return to Arsenal after a successful loan spell at Marseille, with the club likely to decide on a permanent solution in the summer.
There are not many players at Arsenal who divide public opinion like William Saliba. Despite signing for the club three years ago, the Frenchman is yet to make a senior appearance, having gone out on loan three times so far. He returns to the club after a successful season with Marseille, with there still being a lack of clarity on his situation.
Arteta recently claimed Saliba would be staying at the club, thus squashing any chance of him returning to Marseille. However, having been a first-choice centre-back under Jorge Sampaoli, the 21-year-old is seeking guarantees regarding playing time at the Emirates in the upcoming season.
The manager’s comments made it clear he counts on Saliba for next season, although the defender will have to prove his worth and challenge for a spot. Gabriel Magalhaes is currently the undisputed choice in his natural position, and dislodging the Brazilian will be no mean task for the 21-year-old.
With two years left on his deal, Arsenal are planning on offering him a new contract, which could lock his long-term future and calm the nerves of supporters eager to see him play in a Gunners shirt. Saliba, though, recently reiterated his desire to remain at Marseille and play in the Champions League.
While Arsenal are unlikely to sanction another loan deal in current circumstances, another temporary spell could be possible if the 21-year-old signs a new deal. Arteta, though, is keen on integrating him into his squad as Arsenal stares at a long season after qualifying for the Europa League. However, if they cannot extend the defender’s stay, they could be open to selling him, and there is no shortage of interest.
Marseille may not be able to afford him on a permanent deal, which leaves Atletico Madrid, Napoli, and recent entrants Newcastle United to compete for the 20-year-old. Arsenal are expected to slap a significant price tag on the centre-back as they would seek to profit from their investment.
Newcastle are expected to chase a few notable names and a new central defender is high on the agenda. They have been linked with French teenager Isaak Toure, who has a similar physical stature to Saliba. The Arsenal ace, however, is a slightly more experienced professional at the top level and could prove to be a handy addition. The Magpies may look to approach the Gunners if things look bleak with regard to his future at the Emirates.
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As things stand, nothing is decided concerning Saliba’s future. For now, Arsenal have things under their control, although if the defender decides against part taking in Arteta’s plans, the Gunners may have no option but to sell. At that point, sides like Newcastle and Atletico could formalise their interest.
