Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United are now reportedly facing stiff competition from Marseille for Arsenal central defender William Saliba.
Newcastle face Marseille competition for Arsenal’s William Saliba
Earlier this month, L’Equipe reported that Newcastle are keen on signing Saliba from Premier League rivals Arsenal in the summer transfer window.
The Magpies have reportedly sought information about the French centre-back from Arsenal, according to the report in the French publication.
FootMercato are now reporting that Marseille are pushing hard to sign Saliba on a permanent contract this summer
The French club, who will play in the UEFA Champions League next season, have approached Arsenal to find out the conditions it would make to secure the services of the £36,000-a-week (SalarySport) defender on a permanent deal.
Saliba spent the 2021-22 season on loan at Marseille from Arsenal.
Where to next?
In our view, Arsenal are unlikely to let William Saliba leave again this summer.
The France international centre-back is 21 now, and the Gunners will now surely want to make him a regular in the first-team squad.
Arsenal will play in the Europa League next season, and Saliba could get chances to show what he is capable of.
The former Saint-Etienne defender made 36 appearances for Marseille in Ligue 1 last season.
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