Journalist David Ornstein has revealed that there is no agreement yet for William Saliba to extend his contract at Arsenal.
What’s the latest on Saliba’s contract?
The Frenchman has been a revelation at the back for Arsenal this season, helping Mikel Arteta’s side reach the top of the Premier League, but he is yet to commit his future to the club.
His current deal runs out in the summer of 2024, but the club have an option to extend this by one year.
Does Saliba deserve a new deal?
Although Saliba joined the club in 2019, he had to wait until this season to make his debut, as the 21-year-old was sent out on a number of loan spells which have proven beneficial.
Speaking on NBC Sports, Ornstein claimed that whilst there is no agreement yet, there isn’t much need for panic, as the defender has expressed his happiness at the club.
“On William Saliba, as I understand it, there is no agreement close as things stand, but that could change,” he stated.
“He has spoken very positively about wanting to stay at Arsenal. So it will all be about trying to strike a deal between himself, his representatives, and of course Arsenal.”
How good has Saliba been for Arsenal?
His loan spells, particularly his successful year at Marseille, helped the young defender gain experience at the top level, and this has been shown through his remarkable composure at the back.
He has formed an excellent partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes, with the pair starting every single league game together, and the France international’s passing ability makes him perfect for Arteta’s system.
Saliba ranks in the top 8% of centre-backs for passes attempted and completed, as well as the top 12% for successful take-ons as per FBref, and this outstanding ability on the ball helps Arsenal play out from the back.
Arsenal have conceded 23 goals in 24 league games, a record bettered only by Newcastle, and Saliba’s return and breakthrough this season has played a huge part in the impressive defensive solidity on display from the league leaders.