Arsenal transfer: Gunners fans react after hearing details of William Saliba loan

By Lee Clarke

William Saliba is on course for another loan spell away from Arsenal. The centre-back is edging extremely close to a season-long loan stint at Marseille, reports The Athletic.

Saliba is yet to make his first-team bow at the Emirates Stadium. He did get some game time during pre-season ahead of last season, although he spent the first half of the campaign on the sidelines.

As a result, the club decided a loan move would be better for his development during the second half of the season. The French youngster joined Nice and was largely impressive with the Ligue 1 outfit.

The 20-year-old will now embark on another temporary spell, with the intention of eventually impressing Mikel Arteta sufficiently for a Gunners opportunity.

Several clubs were lined up to take a chance at loaning Saliba. Newcastle provided domestic interest, whilst Bayer Leverkusen and Lille were also keen.

Arsenal supporters baffled by Saliba situation

The centre-back cost Arsenal £27 million two years ago. Some supporters are perplexed at why it’s not worked out for the player. Clearly, Arteta doesn’t think he’s quite ready yet, however.

Following the news that a loan is nearing completion, supporters have been reacting on Twitter. It’s fair to say that plenty aren’t struck on the idea and think the £40,000-a-week player deserves a chance at Arsenal.

There is a sense of relief that there isn’t an option to buy in the deal. Football London reported this today and that has at least delighted the Gunners fan base.

Here is what Arsenal fans had to say as reports suggest Saliba is nearing a move to Marseille in a deal that is purely a season-long arrangement.