Arsenal defender joins French outfit on loan

Arsenal defender William Saliba has joined French club Marseille on a season-long loan.

The centre-back joined the Gunners from Saint-Etienne in 2019, and he has yet to make his competitive debut.

He was anticipated to do so last season, but was loaned out to Nice during the second half of the campaign.

With the club's ongoing pursuit of Ben White, there was speculation that Saliba could be loaned out once more.

Marseille have now confirmed that Saliba has joined them for the season. There is no buy option included.

The Gunners are aiming to sign seven players this summer, and a new centre-back remains one of their priorities.

They have been in regular negotiations with Brighton & Hove Albion to push through an agreement for White.

Brighton are looking for £50m upfront for the England international, but the Gunners have so far offered £45m.

Talks are expected to continue in the coming days with Gunners boss Mikel Arteta identifying White as his prime target.