Arsenal wrap up deal for Saint-Etienne starlet

 

Arsenal have finalised a deal to sign highly rated Saint-Etienne defender William Saliba, the Premier League outfit has announced.

 

The Gunners have been locked in talks with Saint-Etienne for a number of weeks after earmarking the 18-year-old as a top transfer target.

 

Tottenham threatened to hi-jack Arsenal's move for Saliba in a stunning late move but the young defender has opted for the red half of north London.

 

Arsenal have reportedly shelled out in the region of €30m for the teenager and Saliba will return to Saint-Etienne on loan next season.

 

Unai Emery wanted to integrate Saliba into his first-team plans this season but Saint-Etienne were adamant throughout negotiations he would stay at the club one more year.

 

Arsenal wrap up deal for Saint-Etienne starlet

 

After agreeing to Saint-Etienne’s demands, Arsenal have managed to lower their initial payment to the French side, therefore freeing up more funds this summer.

 

Saliba made 16 league appearances for Saint-Etienne last season and garnered a promising WhoScored rating of 6.91.

 

Saint-Etienne impressively had a far better win ratio (69.2%) in the league in the matches Saliba started compared to when he didn’t feature from the off (40%).