Fabrizio Romano issued an update on William Saliba’s contract talks with Arsenal.
The Gunners are currently at the summit of the Premier League, two points clear of last season’s champions Manchester City, with a game in hand.
As Arsenal continue their unlikely title charge, off the pitch the club have shown a commitment to tying down several of their star names to longer-term deals.
Gabriel Martinelli recently signed fresh terms, while Bukayo Saka is thought to be close to a new contract.
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However, there has been uncertainly over Saliba’s future, with the centre-back's current deal set to expire in the summer of 2024.
A large part of the Gunners’ success can be attributed to the club's defence, with Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães having formed an impressive partnership this term.
Romano offers Saliba update
Romano claimed that Arsenal's "next priority" was to secure Saliba to a new deal, while the journalist also claimed the France international was eager to remain in north London.
The transfer guru tweeted: “Negotiations continue between Arsenal and William Saliba over a new contract.
“It is the next priority for the club after Saka deal almost done — I understand Saliba wants to stay.
“Talks ongoing on details/salary/structure of the deal, deal not at final stages yet.”
While the deal is not allegedly close to being concluded, Saliba has publicly expressed a desire to remain at the Emirates.
Speaking in January, the 21-year-old said: “I am so happy here.
“The club is speaking with my agent and me, the only thing I can do is (focus on my football). I am so happy here.”
What has Arteta said?
Speaking in December Arteta reiterated Arsenal's eagerness to extend Saliba's contract.
The Spaniard said when quizzed on Saliba's future: "That’s more to Edu and the board to be discussing with him. What I know is that the player is really happy, the player wants to be here and that’s the main thing.
"We have a few of those that we are willing to extend the contract.
"Willy is one of them. I think he’s shown in the months that he’s been with us the quality and the personality he has to play at the level that we want.
"We are trying to do that because we know he can be a really important part of our plans."
Topics: Mikel Arteta, Arsenal, Premier League, Football, William Saliba
Chris Byfield