Fabrizio Romano provides update on William Saliba’s contract talks

William Saliba has not yet penned a contract extension with Arsenal, contrary to reports. However, talks are believed to have progressed well and an agreement is expected to be reached.

Saliba’s stellar spell at Marseille cast doubts over his Arsenal future with the French club keen to sign the centre-back on a permanent basis. It was the defender’s third loan since he joined the Gunners from St Etienne 2019, but Mikel Arteta made it clear earlier this summer that Saliba will be in his plans moving forward.

The young Frenchman appeared for the very first time in an Arsenal shirt against Everton in the first leg of the club’s pre-season tour of the US. He then played the second half in the 3-1 victory over Orlando City on Wednesday night.

Despite Arteta confirming that the player is in his plans, Saliba has continued to be linked with a move away this summer. Arsenal, meanwhile, are keen to extend the player’s contract to ensure he remains on the club’s books for the long haul.

Fabrizio Romano provides update on William Saliba’s new Arsenal contract

Saliba’s agent was understood to be negotiating an extension with the club before his client departed for the States and Freddie Paxton reported on Friday that the talks had culminated in an agreement.

However, renowned transfer guru Fabrizio Romano poured cold water on an extension being agreed.

Speaking on the Que Golazo Pod (via @afcstuff), Romano said: “From what I’m told, a new deal is not fully agreed or completed yet. They are discussing it, very positive discussions with his agent, but still not fully agreed. The plan is to continue with him and have him part of the team.”

While an agreement is yet to be reached, there isn’t any reason for Arsenal supporters to be concerned. There’s no rush on the club’s behalf with Saliba’s current deal expiring in 2024.

The Gunners have made it clear that they view the defender as a cornerstone of their project, and I’m sure his long-term future at the Emirates will be sorted out later this summer.