Mikel Arteta’s continued doubts over William Saliba could see Arsenal ask David Luiz to remain at the club – but on reduced terms.
The young French centre-half was signed by Unai Emery more than 18 months ago, but didn’t arrive until Arteta was in charge.
Saliba failed to make an impression at Arsenal and was subsequently loaned back to Ligue 1.
It has left the Arsenal boss with a lack of options however and he must decide on how best to manage his resources this summer.
Luiz remained at the Emirates this season after signing a one year extension.
The Gunners are again set to offer him the chance to prolong his stay, but he will have to take a pay cut according to The Sun.
(Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Luiz continues to be a leading figure in the dressing room and his winning experience is a plus.
“David has played an insane amount of games in the last two months and at his age it shows a lot of credit and desire from his side,” claimed Arteta.
“His performances have been really strong and you can have some really good example of defenders that have played until 37 or 38.
“It depends first of all on being injury-free, and then on the ambition, eagerness and professionalism of the player.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
“If you have those ingredients as a defender, I think you can get away with a little bit more.”
Saliba has aired his side of the story since being sent out to Nice.
The 20-year-old was hailed as the best young French defender since Raphael Varane when he burst onto the scene with Saint Etienne.
Saliba claims Arteta didn’t give himself enough time to showcase his quality having judged him early on.
“He judged me on two-and-a-half matches,” Saliba told RMC. “I would have liked for him to play me more.
“But he told me I wasn’t ready. I was waiting for him to give me a chance, but football is like that.”
