Arsenal starlet William Saliba will ask to leave the club if he isn't guaranteed a starting spot, according to The Independent.
La Liga giants Atletico Madrid and Ligue 1 outfit Marseille are said to be interested in signing Saliba in this summer's transfer window and the young defender will ask to leave the Gunners if manager Mikel Arteta fails to guarantee him a starting place ahead of the 2021/22 campaign. Saliba spent last season on loan at Marseille, where he established himself as one of France's best centre-backs, winning Ligue 1 young player of the season in the process.
It is claimed that the 21-year-old is extremely keen to play regularly ahead of the 2022 World Cup as he looks to make Didier Deschamp's squad for the Qatar tournament, with a move away from north London potentially considered if he finds himself on the bench during the first few weeks of the season. This comes after Arsenal academy manager Per Mertesacker heaped praise on the former Nice loanee's abilities.
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"What William has done in France and in Marseille is magnificent," the German said. "So for us to test him this summer and see what’s best for him.
"He has clearly made his mark with his young age, playing in a major league in Europe and being one of the best players says it all, so why not use him?"
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