Arsenal Close to Signing William Saliba After Agreeing to Loan Defender Back to Saint-Etienne

​Arsenal are on the verge of making their first signing of the summer in the form of 18-year-old centre back William Saliba.

The young defensive protege has been tracked by the Gunners for a number of months, though recent reports suggested they faced competition for his signature from north London rivals Tottenham.

FBL-FRA-CUP-SAINT ETIENNE-DIJON

But it appears that Arsenal will get their man, with ESPN reporting that a deal has been agreed that will see Saliba return to France on loan next season.


If an agreement has been reached, this signifies a change of heart from manager Unai Emery, who was initially reluctant to spend a significant portion of his £45m budget on a player who he'll be unable to call upon next season.

Personal terms have thought to have already been agreed with the player, with a medical the next step before confirmation of a final fee.

The youngster made 19 appearances for Saint-Etienne last season after breaking into their first team setup, demonstrating strength and considerable skill on the ball during his brief career to date.

FRA-LIGUE1-CAEN-SAINT ETIENNE

Although not a household name, sealing his signature is a significant achievement on Arsenal's part as they've fended off competition from both likes Spurs and PSG - both of whom can offer Champions League football next season.

The ​​Gunners summer spending may not stop there, though, with their defence in need of further overhauling. ​Shkodran Mustafi and Laurent Koscielny have been tipped for a summer exit this summer, while Nacho Monreal is out-of-contract this summer.

One man who could arrive at the Emirates Stadium with the ability to actually play is Celtic full-back Kieran Tierney - though his valuation may prove difficult to match.


Source : 90min