Arteta sent clear message over Saliba by Arsenal chief Mertesacker

Former Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker has hinted that "magnificent" William Saliba should be rewarded with a place in the Gunners' first team for the coming season.

The Frenchman joined the north London club three years ago from Saint-Etienne but has yet to make his first-team debut. Since then, he has been sent back out on loan to his former club, whilst having also represented Nice.

The 21-year-old also enjoyed an extremely productive season with another French club Marseille last term - his performances earning him plenty of plaudits, as well as a place in the Ligue 1 team of the season.

Now back with the Gunners - and just two years remaining on his current contract at the Emirates Stadium - there is a question over his long-term future with the club. Mikel Arteta has a first-choice defensive pairing of Gabriel Magalhaes and Ben White at his disposal, whilst the side are continuing to chase the services of Ajax star Lisandro Martinez alongside Premier League rivals Manchester United.

Arsenal academy director and former centre back Mertesacker has now given his say on Saliba's potential role at the club and has hinted that he should be handed first-team opportunities in north London.

Speaking to HaytersTV, the German said: "What William has done in Marseille is magnificent. So for us to really test him this summer and see what's best for him.

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"But he has clearly made his mark with his young age with his playing in a major league in Europe and been one of the best players in Europe. So why not use him?"

Whilst Arteta has a decision to make over the future of Saliba, it appears that the Frenchman has made a u-turn over his intentions. He previously said that he wanted to remain at the Stade Velodrome for next season.

He said: "I want to come back and play the Champions League. I have never played in it and I want to discover it here."

However, the prospect of a permanent move away from Arsenal does not currently look like being on the Frenchman's mind.Speaking to Telefoot, he said: "I belong to Arsenal, I still have two years left. I will be back with Arsenal. I have played zero matches and I still want to show them my true face and have the chance to play for these fans and this great club.

"But it doesn't just depend on me. In any case, to leave like this, would be a shame."

In the meantime, Mateo Guendouzi - himself having made a permanent switch a permanent switch to Marseille has suggested that he would be pushing for his former teammate to leave Arsenal.