Arsenal defender William Saliba open to Marseille stay after impressive loan stint

William Saliba says he will discuss his future with Arsenal in the summer, but admits it would “not be a bad idea” to stay at Marseille.

Saliba joined Arsenal from Saint-Etienne for £28million in the summer of 2019, however is yet to make his senior Gunners debut.

Instead, the centre-back has spent time out on loan and is excelling during his most recent spell with Marseille.

The French club have expressed a desire to keep the 20-year-old, who will have two years left on his Arsenal contract come the summer, and his future will be resolved at the end of the season.

“I never hid that I felt good here,” Saliba told RMC Sport. “I don’t know my future, there are two months left. The most important thing is to qualify for the Champions League and go as far as possible in the Conference League.

“I think there will be discussions afterwards, at the end of May, beginning of June, with Arsenal and Marseille. We will decide at that time.

“But it is sure that continuing here would not be a bad idea. On the contrary, I know the city, my team-mates, my coach. But it’s not just up to me.

“We’ll see how it goes, but it also depends on Arsenal, who has to agree. We’ll see.”

Saliba earned his first call-up to France’s senior squad this week and is hoping to make his debut in the friendlies against Ivory Coast and South Africa.

“It is a great pride to be here. I found out yesterday when I woke up,” he said. “I’m very proud and happy. Since it’s my birthday week, it’s going to be very special.

“I don’t know if I’m going to play on Friday or Tuesday, but I’m ready and I’m enjoying it.”

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