Arsenal ‘working hard to extend Saliba's contract' at the Emirates.

William Saliba’s current contract is set to expire next summer, and Arsenal are working hard to hold onto the Frenchman.

Arsenal ‘working hard to extend Saliba's contract' at the Emirates. [Sky Sports]

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted that the Gunners are looking to extend defender William Saliba’s contract.

The French centre-back Saliba, who returned to the Emirates during the summer, has been impressive for the Premier League table-toppers so far this season, with the 21-year-old’s displays helping Arsenal to a five-point lead over the champions Manchester City.

However, speaking in a news conference, Arteta confirmed they “are trying to extend his (Saliba’s) contract because we know he can be a really important part of our plans.”

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“We have a few of those that we are willing to extend their contracts," said Arteta. Willy is one of them.

“I think he’s shown in the months that he’s been with us the quality and the personality that he has to play at the level that we want.

“We are trying to do that [extend his contract] because we know he can be a really important part of our plans.”

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When asked if the contract talks between all parties are heading in the right direction, the Spaniard replied: “I hope so. That is more to Edu and the board to be discussing with him, but what I know is the players is really happy and really wants to be here, and that is the main thing.”

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