Saliba 'one of the best in Europe' says Mertesacker, who urges Arteta to use star

The World Cup winning German international was speaking after Saliba returned to parent club Arsenal follow a season on loan at Marseille where he hugely impressed.

The 21-year-old was arguably OM's best player as they finished runners-up to Paris Saint Germain in Ligue 1 and secured a return to the Champions League.

He won the Ligue 1 Young Player of the Season Award for his efforts but there were still doubts over a return to parent club Arsenal, who he is still yet to make a senior appearance for.

The France international signed for the Gunners in 2019 for £27million from Saint-Etienne before returning to the side on loan, and then having stints at Nice before Marseille.

Meanwhile, Arteta settled on Ben White and Gabriel Magalhaes as his centre-back duo last season, and has even been linked with Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez.

However, the Gunners will have an extra game load this season after returning to the Europa League, and Arteta's former teammate Mertesacker thinks it's time to utilise Saliba.

"What William has done in Marseille is magnificent," he told Hayters TV. "So for us to really test him this summer and see what's best for him.

"But he has clearly made his mark at a young age and playing in a major league in Europe - he's been one of the best players in Europe.

"So why not use him?"

Mertesacker isn't the only one impressed with Saliba, with France boss Didier Deschamps offering huge praise after adding him to his national team squad in March.

"He's a true defender," the World Cup-winner manager said.

"He has this ability in duels, he's quick and he's a good header of the ball.

"He's someone who's calm, unfazed, and has a lot of maturity."