Journalist Fabrizio Romano says that William Saliba 'wants to stay' at Arsenal amid 'ongoing' talks over a new contract.

The Lowdown: After Saka...

It was reported last week that Bukayo Saka is close to signing a new deal at the Emirates Stadium worth £200,000-per-week.

It was also reported that Saliba will follow suit soon, alongside Granit Xhaka and Aaron Ramsdale.

The Latest: Saliba 'wants to stay'

Taking to Twitter, Romano says that Saliba wants to stay in North London, and that a new contract for him is Arsenal's 'next priority' after Saka:

"Negotiations continue between Arsenal and William Saliba over new contract. It is the next priority for the club after Saka deal almost done — understand Saliba wants to stay.

"Talks ongoing on details/salary/structure of the deal, deal not at final stages yet."

The Verdict: Big boost

Hearing that Saliba wants to stay at the club will certainly come as a big boost to Gunners supporters.

His current deal expires in 2024, and he has already been loaned out three times since joining.

However, Saliba has been a key player in the Gunners' title charge this season, with no other player in the squad winning more aerial duels or averaging more passes per game than him in the Premier League so far, as he has played in every game under Mikel Arteta (WhoScored).

On just £40,000-per-week, Saliba is remarkably one of the lowest earners in the squad at the moment, and so deserves a significant pay rise for his performances in this campaign.