Some Arsenal fans have been reacting on social media to reports by Ouest France, claiming William Saliba has rejected a loan transfer to Rennes for the 2021/22 season.
Saliba has refused to join the Ligue 1 side because of a soured relationship with the Roazhon Park outfit. The defender still feels let down by Les Rouge et Noir after they failed to fulfil plans to sign him in a temporary transfer last summer, despite agreeing to the move.
He held out for Rennes to resurrect their interest until the end of the window, but to no avail. It forced the 20-year-old to stay at the Emirates Stadium until the winter when he could join Nice on loan. Now, Saliba has made it clear he will not leave Arsenal for Rennes.
Rennes Sporting Director Florian Maurice was keen to strike a deal with Arsenal to sign Saliba on loan this summer. He watched the £40,000-per-week enforcer in action regularly during his time at Nice, but could only pursue a temporary deal.
Saliba started all 20 of his Ligue 1 outings with Nice, having not featured at all for Arsenal last season. Mikel Arteta also only included the Gunners’ £27m signing from 2019 among his substitutes twice across all competitions. Leaving him out of the squad 25 times in all.
Thus, the former France youth international continues to wait for his Arsenal debut having re-joined Saint-Etienne on loan for 2019/20. And his chances may be hindered further, with The Guardian reporting Brighton’s Ben White has agreed terms on a move.
Arsenal fans react to Saliba rejecting Rennes loan
But some Arsenal fans reacting on social media want Arteta to give Saliba a chance after he rejected Rennes’ interest. They are keen for the Spaniard to show trust in the Unai Emery signing and hope he continues rejecting offers.
The Daily Mail have named Lille and Newcastle United as other potential suitors for the centre-half. Arsenal coaches believe Saliba needs another year away from north London to continue his development and prove he is ready.
So, here are some of the messages Arsenal fans have shared on Saliba rejecting a loan to Rennes…
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
