This archive report was first published on 21 July 2019.
On July 21, 2019, Arsenal finally agreed a £28m deal for Saint-Etienne defender William Saliba, beating off interest from Tottenham.
Saliba, 18, opted to join Arsenal ahead of Spurs and will undergo a medical on Tuesday.
As part of the deal, Saliba will be loaned back to Saint-Etienne for a season, allowing Arsenal to pay the transfer fee over a longer period.
Saliba is considered one of the best young defensive prospects in Europe, and Arsenal are keen to develop him.
Earlier this month, the Gunners signed teenage striker Gabriel Martinelli from Brazilian side Ituano, and Saliba's arrival is a significant boost to their squad.
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Saliba made his debut for Arsenal with a fine header during their 3-0 victory over Colorado Rapids last Tuesday, and he will look to continue his impressive form in the upcoming season.
