ROMA AND ARSENAL BATTLE FOR FRENCH ACE

The transfer window is up and running as several clubs across Europe look to make additions to their squads ahead of next season. English clubs have been busy in the window as with several players linked with moves to England.

Premier League Club Arsenal are reportedly close to finalising their first transfer of the season according to reports from France.

Saliba has been a long term target for the Gunners as the club was impressed with his performances this season. The 18-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough season for Saint-Etienne where he was a rock in the defence.

French tabloid L’Equipe claims that Saint-Etienne defender William Saliba has agreed personal terms with the club. It is understood that Arsenal had offered the youngster an attractive five-year contract that would see the player make the move to the Emirates this summer.

There have been a lot of speculations surrounding the transfer with some reports claiming that Saint-Etienne are willing to sell but want the defender in loan next season.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery is a big fan of the player and believes that he could slot into the first team.

A transfer fee of £20 million has been touted as the fee demanded by Saint-Etienne but the report does not indicate how much both clubs had agreed for the player.

Italian side AS Roma are said to be interested in the defender and have made a late move for the 18-year-old. New manager Paulo Fonseca has made a list of players he wants and Saliba is seen as a player that can develop into a quality defender.

Roma have developed an history of buying quality young players and reselling for a huge fee. Saliba would be a good signing for the club

However, at the moment Arsenal appear to be the overwhelming favourite for the France u21 defender.

From the brief videos we have seen from Saliba he looks like a good prospect with his ability on the ball and defensive position. The Gunners are short on cash and a move for Saliba could provide good returns in the long run.