Arsenal set to reward star player with lucrative new deal

Arsenal are preparing to hand William Saliba a new long-term contract that would make the France international one of the club’s highest earners.

The 24-year-old defender has been central to Mikel Arteta’s side in recent seasons and is regarded as one of the best centre-backs in Europe. With just over a year left on his current deal, there had been some concern about his long-term future as Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain both expressed interest.

However, talks led by new sporting director Andrea Berta have progressed smoothly, with both club and player optimistic of announcing an agreement soon.

Speaking during Arsenal’s pre-season tour in Singapore, Saliba hinted at his desire to extend his stay in north London.

Asked if discussions were moving in the right direction, he replied: “Yeah, hopefully. There is nothing now but there is a good conversation with my agent and the club. Let’s see.”

The Gunners have been proactive in securing the futures of their brightest talents. This summer saw Myles Lewis-Skelly, Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Magalhaes all sign fresh terms, while Berta is also pursuing negotiations with Bukayo Saka, whose contract runs until the summer of 2027.

Saliba has repeatedly underlined his happiness at Arsenal, saying earlier this year: “For me, I’m really happy here. I’ve been here for two and a half years as well. There is nothing to announce. I’m happy here and I want to continue here.”

The defender’s importance was further emphasised by the club’s ambitious summer, in which eight new players were added to the squad. Tying down Saliba is seen as another key step in Arsenal’s project to maintain a squad capable of competing for major honours both domestically and in Europe.