Arsenal have received a significant boost ahead of a crucial run of fixtures, with William Saliba has agreeing to sign a new long-term deal at the Emirates Stadium.
The 24-year-old French defender had been attracting strong interest from Real Madrid, sparking fears among supporters that the club could be forced to sell him next summer, with his previous contract set to expire in 2027.
Madrid were believed to be monitoring his situation closely, with speculation that Saliba might be tempted by a move to La Liga and the chance to play for the Spanish giants.
However, The Athletic reports that Saliba has now committed his future to the Gunners by agreeing fresh terms, with the official signing expected to take place within days.
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Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has added that the new deal is set to keep him at Arsenal until 2030, providing the club with long-term security over one of their most valuable assets.
Saliba’s decision is a major statement of faith in Mikel Arteta’s project.
The France international has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defence since breaking into the first team following loan spells at Saint-Étienne and Marseille.
Arsenal have received a significant boost ahead of a crucial run of fixtures, with William Saliba has agreeing to sign a new long-term deal at the Emirates Stadium
|GETTY/PA
His presence has been vital in helping the club re-establish themselves among the Premier League’s elite and secure regular Champions League football.
Speaking earlier this year, Saliba made clear that he was happy in north London.
“Yes, hopefully — of course there is nothing now but there is a good conversation with my agent and the club,” he said when asked about a possible extension.
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William Saliba has been a key player for Arsenal in recent years
|REUTERS
“Let’s see.”
That “let’s see” now appears to have turned into a resounding commitment.
Saliba has featured in all but two of Arsenal’s matches in all competitions this season, missing the league win over Nottingham Forest with an ankle injury picked up against Liverpool and being rested for the Champions League victory over Athletic Bilbao.
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He returned to the starting XI in style during the Carabao Cup third-round win over Port Vale, producing a superb pass to set up Leandro Trossard for Arsenal’s second goal in a professional 2-0 victory.
That result has set up a fourth-round tie against Brighton at the Emirates, but Arteta’s focus will first be on a challenging trip to St James’ Park on Sunday evening as Arsenal look to keep pace with leaders Liverpool.
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Real Madrid will now have to look at other defensive reinforcements with William Saliba set to sign a new deal at Arsenal
|REUTERS
The Gunners currently sit five points adrift of Arne Slot’s reigning champions, who have enjoyed a perfect start to the season.
Securing Saliba’s future is another step in Arsenal’s efforts to build a squad capable of finally ending their 22-year wait for a Premier League title.
The Frenchman’s commitment will be seen as a huge vote of confidence in Arteta’s long-term vision — and a warning to Europe’s top clubs that Arsenal intend to keep hold of their most prized assets.
As for Madrid, they're now set to be forced to look elsewhere when it comes to bolstering their frontline.