Is William Saliba set for long-term Arsenal stay?

According to reports, Arsenal defender William Saliba’s impending new long-term contract is as good as signed.

Perhaps the most sought-after signature has reportedly been got for Arsenal. After The Athletic’s David Ornstein broke the news of William Saliba’s impending long-term deal a week ago, there has been nothing since.

With the French defender seemingly settled in north London and Arsenal able to fight off the would-be suitors, including Man Utd, for Saliba, the 22-year-old has agreed to a new four-year deal. So why no official announcement?

That is good to hear, but Arsenal fans will only rest once they see the official unveiling of Saliba’s new contract. Exactly how much the French international will be on is unknown, but some reports suggest nearly £200,000-a-week, which, given his contribution to the team, is more than deserved.

With Saliba playing such a key role in Arsenal’s title bid as the difference in the back four with him in the side compared to when he was out, getting him tucked away nice and early was crucial.

It will likely not be forever as Europe’s elite will eventually get their hands on the defender, but for the next four years, he will call north London home.

It has been a good offseason for Arsenal and Mikel Arteta thus far, with Saliba, along with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli all committing to long-term deals.

There is the Declan Rice saga as well, with the Gunners having their first bid rejected (of course) and are expected to return to the negotiating table rather quickly.

It looms as yet another big summer for the Gunners, with Saliba’s impending deal the firestarter for what could be a defining few months.