‘I’ve been told’: Journalist shares what he keeps hearing about William Saliba at Arsenal

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Charles Watts has insisted that nothing has changed at Arsenal, despite rumours of interest in William Saliba, on his personal Youtube channel.

L’Equipe say that the Arsenal defender is now in demand, with Marseille wanting him.

The Gunners youngster has impressed out on loan at Nice, with his performance clearly catching the eye of rival Ligue 1 sides.

But Watts insists that Marseille’s interest has not changed Arsenal’s stance and he keeps hearing that the Gunners are intent on keeping the 20-year-old and giving him a chance.

“I want to talk about Saliba first of all,” the Goal reporter said. “There is some rumour and speculation in France that marseille have an interest in William Saliba.

“All I can say on this is what I’ve been told time and time again. He will be given a chance to come back to Arsenal this summer, he remains part of the plans.

“Arsenal have always said that, when he was loaned out to Nice in January.

“There may well be speculation from France, but as far as I’m aware unless there has been a significant change of stance recently or if someone put in a bid Arsenal couldn’t refuse, Saliba will be returning to the club in pre-season and will be given an opportunity to prove himself.

“There may well be interest, but I’m not sure Arsenal would entertain that.”

Good news

That news is likely to please Arsenal supporters, with some becoming concerned over the update in L’Equipe.

There is a widespread belief among Arsenal supporters that Saliba could be a really useful player for them over the years ahead.

Unfortunately for the commanding centre-back Mikel Arteta has, as yet, been less convinced.

Arteta has been very reluctant to utilise Saliba in any competition during his time at Arsenal to date.

His loan spell may just have convinced Arteta that he is reliable enough to perform a function, though.

And the pressure will be on the French youth international to impress over pre-season, as there is definitely a space for him in Arsenal’s line-up, if he can convince Arteta.