Following a disappointing 2018-19 season, Arsenal are on a heavy disburse this summer, and are about to confirm negotiations with AS Saint-Étienne defender William Saliba, according to French outlet L’Equipe.
Gunners boss Unai Emery has already embarked on a deal of £20 million to sign Celtic defender Kieran Tierney, and is keen to bring the French defender to north London as to strengthen up the leaky defence, which caused Arsenal to concede 51 goals in 38 Premier League games and 71 goals in 58 matches across all competitions, costing them to lose a Champions League entry.
However, Saint-Étienne is asking €30 million for the 18-year old.
Former Arsenal defender and club legend Lauren has praised Saliba.
“He’s strong, tall, can come out of the back with the ball and an international for France.”
“He reads the game very well, which is important for a player at the back, you have to anticipate and he looks very good at just 18, so the future is bright!” he said last month.
José Mourinho has also complimented the Les Verts teenager.
“William Saliba has all the assets to become a good player, just like Kurt Zouma, who I signed [also from Saint-Etienne]” he said to French outlet RMC.
