David Ornstein says William Saliba will fight for Arsenal place, amid David Luiz news

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The Athletic’s David Ornstein says that William Saliba will likely return to Arsenal to fight for his place, amid reports of David Luiz leaving the club.

Luiz is now confirmed as leaving the Gunners, per The Athletic’s own report today. The experienced Brazilian leaves after helping Arsenal to the FA Cup and Community Shield last season, and will no doubt be fondly remembered by most.

However, it leaves a gap in the defence and one which Mikel Arteta must address in the summer. But according to Ornstein, one option to fill the void could be 20-year-old Saliba, currently on loan with Nice.

Speaking via his Twitter account today, Ornstein says Saliba is expected back at the club, with all ‘indications’ pointing towards him competing for his place in the Gunners squad.

Saliba was cast aside in the summer despite many expecting him to be given a chance by Arteta. However, he’s done well in Nice again, prompting thoughts that he could be given another go this summer.

Ornstein’s comments seem to confirm that will be the case for the Gunners.

TBR View: Saliba has big shoes to fill but should be given a go at least

Luiz is a big character and a serial winner, but he also is a bit of a ticking time bomb at times so it’s not a huge surprise he is going.

Saliba is certainly a talented individual and just 20, shouldn’t be discounted yet. But Arteta will need to give him the chances to impress, and also allow him to make mistakes.

This is a big summer for the Gunners and if Saliba can prove himself, he’ll save the club a handsome fee in the market.