Arsenal ‘Shocked’ By William Saliba’s Contract Demands, Could Be Forced To Sell

Negotiations between Arsenal and William Saliba for a new contract have hit a roadblock, leaving the club “shocked” by the player’s demands, according to reports.

The talented French defender has just one year left on his current £40,000-a-week deal, and unlike some other players, Arsenal does not have the option to extend it for an additional year.

While Arsenal has recently secured new contracts for players like Bukayo Saka and Aaron Ramsdale, talks with Saliba have proven to be more problematic.

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The Sun reports that Saliba’s representatives have stunned Arsenal’s hierarchy with their salary demands, raising concerns that the club may be forced to sell the 22-year-old this summer.

Arsenal is unwilling to let Saliba run down his contract and potentially leave on a free transfer, making this the last opportunity to cash in on him if he decides against renewing his deal.

Despite months of negotiations, the parties are reportedly far apart in reaching an agreement. Arsenal has offered the defender a £120,000-a-week deal, but it falls far short of the demands put forward by Saliba’s camp, and more importantly, what Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) could potentially offer.

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The Gunners fear that PSG, backed by Qatari investment, can provide Saliba with an astronomical salary that they cannot match. PSG is reportedly willing to do whatever it takes to bring the talented center-back to the Parc des Princes.

PSG aims to bolster their squad with a core of promising young French players in the upcoming transfer windows, and Saliba fits their criteria perfectly.

Arsenal is said to be working tirelessly to resolve the situation with Saliba, who currently earns one of the lowest wages among the first-team players. The club is keen to avoid any uncertainty surrounding the player as they head into the new season.

Meanwhile, PSG would be hopeful of securing Saliba for a reduced fee if he indicates to Arsenal that he will not be signing a contract extension. Arsenal may even struggle to recoup the £27 million they paid for the defender in 2019.

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Despite being sidelined with a back injury since March, Saliba had an impressive season during his loan spell at Marseille.

Arsenal’s form suffered in his absence, earning just nine points out of a possible 24 in the final stretch of matches. However, the medical team remains confident that Saliba will make a full recovery in time for the pre-season.

As the contract saga continues, Arsenal faces a crucial decision regarding Saliba’s future. The outcome will not only impact the club’s defensive options but also determine whether they can secure a fair transfer fee for the highly-rated defender.