Marseille have reportedly enquired about the possibility of signing William Saliba permanently, but Arsenal remain uninterested in selling the 21-year-old.
According to Foot Mercato, Arsenal are uninterested in selling William Saliba, making their stance clear to Marseille after the Ligue 1 giants enquired again from the defender. Les Phoceens had asked the Gunners for the centre-back’s availability as they looked to sign him permanently.
Marseille have not lost hope in the pursuit of William Saliba, as the Ligue 1 giants continue to push for a transfer. The French defender spent last season with the club on loan from Arsenal and excelled over the course of the campaign.
Jorge Sampaoli faces the task of replacing the 21-year-old French international and continues to look for options in the market. Recent links with Clement Lenglet suggested Marseille were ready to move on from Saliba, but they are still hopeful of re-signing Saliba, only this time they want a permanent deal.
Marseille had tried to push for a move right after the season ended, but Mikel Arteta suggested the defender is open to returning to Arsenal and playing a part in the first team next season. Similarly, Saliba spoke about his intentions to stay at the Emirates for the 2022/23 campaign and compete with their existing centre-backs.
However, Arsenal’s recent pursuit of Lisandro Martinez may have boosted Marseille’s hopes of concluding a deal for the Frenchman. It seems the Ligue 1 giants have not given up and made an enquiry over a permanent transfer for the 21-year-old defender.
The details of the approach are still under wraps, but the Gunners are reportedly not interested in entertaining offers for the young centre-back. Arteta considers Saliba a growing part of the Arsenal first-team and is likely to afford him significant game time next season. Marseille are also interested in Nuno Tavares, having made a loan offer with a buy option.
Arsenal may consider the proposal, although it will depend on their chances of signing Martinez from Ajax. Saliba has two years left on his contract, and Arsenal are reportedly planning on offering him a new deal. However, after a tremendous season in France, Arteta wants the 21-year-old defender for the long-term and will be hoping he extends his stay at the club beyond 2024.
