Gunners give it the hard Sal as William signs new deal

Arsenal defender William Saliba has committed his future to the club by signing a new long-term contract.

The Frenchman, 22, joined the Gunners in 2019 before being sent back to Saint-Etienne on loan.

He also enjoyed temporary stints at fellow Ligue 1 sides Nice and Marseille.

Saliba finally made his breakthrough in North London at the start of last season and became a key man for Mikel Arteta, starting their first 27 Premier League games before a campaign-ending injury in March.

Arteta said: "To have William extend his contract with us was something we have wanted to do for a long time.

"William proved last season just how good and how important he is to our squad. The ability he has at his young age of just 22 is exciting and there is of course so much more room for development with any player at this stage of their career.

"We're looking forward to continuing to work with William in the years to come."

Gunners sporting director Edu added: "We are so happy to have signed a new deal with William.

"He is part of our vision to keep our talented young players, who will hopefully be successful with us for many years to come, so that we can grow and progress together.

"I know the supporters will be just as happy as we are to see William continue with us in the future."

Saliba formed an excellent partnership alongside Gabriel Magalhaes in central defence as Arsenal narrowly missed out on the title to Manchester City.

After agreeing to remain at the Emirates for the foreseeable future, he will hope to inspire the Gunners to another push for glory next term.

As well as signing fresh terms, Saliba will also wear a new shirt number for next season, taking the No2 jersey.

Arteta's men begin their Premier League campaign against Nottingham Forest on August 12.