William Saliba return date revealed amid Arsenal contract fears

William Saliba's return date has been revealed amid concerns over the defender's future at Arsenal.

Saliba has been a rock at the back for Mikel Arteta this season, forming a formidable partnership alongside Gabriel Magalhaes in the heart of defence.

However, the Frenchman suffered a back injury against Sporting Lisbon in March which has not only hampered his progress, but thrown Arsenal's title challenge completely off course.

A 3-0 defeat to Brighton last weekend all but sealed the Gunners' Premier League fate, with Manchester City four points clear at the top of the table with a game in hand over the north London side.

Supporters had initially hoped that Saliba would be available for the run-in. However, The Athletic revealed he would miss the rest of the season.

Rob Holding originally stepped up to replace the 21-year-old, but struggled to replicate the defender's form.

The mantle was then passed to Jakub Kiwior, who recently came under fire for switching off in the lead-up to Brighton's first goal at the Emirates.

However, to fans' relief, they have now been given a timeframe on Saliba's return.

When will Saliba be back from injury?

French journalist Fabrice Hawkins told RMC Sport that Saliba will return to training at the end of June to the beginning of July.

In turn, Saliba should have the necessary time to prepare for the 2023/2024 campaign, as the Gunners' return to the Champions League for the first time since the 2017.

However, there remains a degree of concern surrounding Saliba's future in north London, with the player yet to sign a new contract at the club.

The France international's current deal is due to expire next year, and Arteta is thought to be keen to tie him down to fresh terms.

Hawkins states that Arsenal have started 'negotiations' with Saliba, although three major clubs are said to be eager to snap him up this summer.