Barcelona president Joan Laporta is reportedly planning an ambitious move for £86 million-rated Arsenal star William Saliba, buoyed by a lucrative new £127 million-per-season Nike deal.
Arsenal have already confirmed that Cedric Soares and Mohamed Elneny will leave upon the expiry of their contracts on June 30. These senior players join a group of academy graduates deemed surplus to requirements by manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu. However, they may not be the only departures from Hale End this summer.
Goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale might exit after losing his number one spot to David Raya last season. Similarly, Thomas Partey faces an uncertain future as he enters the final 12 months of his contract.
Additionally, Kieran Tierney has reportedly been informed that they are not part of Arteta’s long-term plans. Other potential exits include Gabriel Jesus, Fabio Vieira, Reiss Nelson, Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah, Albert Sambi Lokonga, and Nuno Tavares.
Arsenal defender William Saliba (Image credit: Getty Images)
Despite the potential departures, certain players remain untouchable in Arteta’s squad, notably star centre-back William Saliba. The Frenchman, currently representing Les Bleus at Euro 2024, has significantly increased his value since bursting onto the scene at Arsenal following a productive loan spell at Marseille. Saliba, who now commands a valuation of around £86 million, has garnered interest from elite European clubs, including Real Madrid.
According to Football Transfers, Barcelona are also a major admirer of the 23-year-old defender. The Catalan club’s financial struggles have been well-documented, but they are set to benefit from a new kit deal with Nike worth £127 million per season. Laporta believes this deal could significantly enhance their spending power.
Barcelona are reportedly planning an ambitious move for Saliba within the next three years, alongside Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. However, prying Saliba away from Arsenal will be challenging, as he is considered a cornerstone of Arteta’s future plans.
Despite Barcelona viewing Saliba as a long-term solution to their defensive issues, securing a deal for the Frenchman will be extremely difficult.
