Topics: Manchester United, Arsenal, William Saliba, Premier League, Mikel Arteta, Transfers
Manchester United made an approach over the signing of Arsenal defender William Saliba before the France international agreed to a new contract, according to reports.
The Athletic's David Ornstein reported on Saturday that the 22-year-old had agreed to sign a new long-term deal that will keep him at the Emirates Stadium until 2027.
Although the contract is not yet officially signed, the news has come as a great boost to manager Mikel Arteta after months of talks with the centre-back.
Saliba was a key player for the Gunners throughout the 2022/23 season, but his campaign was ended prematurely due to a back injury suffered in February.
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The Frenchman, who was a part of France's World Cup squad, formed a strong central defensive partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes at Arsenal this season. He started every Premier League game until his injury, and Arteta described him as 'exceptional' for the way in which he adapted to first team football in England.
PSG had been linked with attempting to acquire his services throughout the season, as uncertainty over his Arsenal future continued. His current deal expires next summer, meaning he would have been able to discuss a pre-contract with overseas clubs in January.
Now, it has been reported that another surprise club were involved in the race.
According to French outlet RMC Sport, United had been monitoring Saliba's situation at Arsenal and had enquired over a move for the defender prior to his decision to sign a new contract.
Erik ten Hag is on the lookout for a centre-back to add to his squad, with United reportedly closing in on a move to sign Napoli star Kim Min-jae.
If Saliba had moved to Old Trafford, he would have followed a path trodden by several Arsenal stars in the past.
Chief amongst them is Robin van Persie, who controversially swapped clubs in 2012 before winning his first Premier League title in the following season.
And Alexis Sanchez joined United from the Gunners in 2018, but did not enjoy success at Old Trafford.
As well as United, RMC also claim that Bayern Munich were in the running for Saliba - but the Frenchman has firmly decided to stick with Arsenal.
