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Arsenal fans have encouraged Mikel Arteta to give young defender William Saliba a chance next season following a report from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The Gunners signed the French central-defender in 2019 from Saint-Etienne. However, the 21-year-old is yet to make a senior appearance so far for the north London club, having been sent out on loan three times.
Saliba enjoyed a wonderful campaign on loan for Marseille last term where he played 52 times and was named the Ligue 1 'Young Player of the Season'. The defender also made his debut for the French national team, where he has since made five appearances.
Numerous reports have previously stated that Arteta has not been impressed with Saliba's attitude, but according to Romano, rumours linking the starlet away from Arsenal on a loan move are 'wide of the mark'. He added that the club are counting on him to make an impact for the club next season.
The Italian journalist has also claimed that the club are keen to extend Saliba's contract, which currently has two years remaining on it.
Supporters were encouraged by Romano's claims as they took to Twitter to encourage the Gunners to give Saliba a chance in the first-team in the upcoming campaign:
William Saliba confirms he is returning to Arsenal for next season
Following incredibly impressive loan spells at Saint-Etienne, Nice and Marseille, Saliba will be desperate to showcase his talent in the Premier League ahead of the World Cup later this year.
However, he will face stiff competition from the likes of Ben White and Gabriel Magalhaes to become Arteta's first-choice centre-defender. Saliba has insisted he wants to be given a chance by the club.
The youngster told Telefoot (per Arseblog):
“I belong to Arsenal, I still have two years left. I will be back with Arsenal. I have played zero matches and I still want to show them my true face and have the chance to play for these fans and this great club."
About his time at Marseille, Saliba commented:
“It’s as if I stayed at least two to three years, it’s really special. Even if I don’t come back to Marseille, I’ll never forget. Thanks to Marseille, I’ve come through a great milestone and it was they who helped boost my confidence.”
