Mikel Arteta insists Arsenal are working hard to extend the contract of defender William Saliba.
The Frenchman has been a standout performer for the Gunners so far this season with his performances helping his side to the top of the Premier League.
Saliba’s current deal expires next summer, but Arsenal hold an option to extend by a further year. However, Arteta admitted the Gunners are keen to tie the 21-year-old down to a new long-term deal.
He said: “We have a few of those that we are willing to extend their contracts. Willy is one of them.
“I think he’s shown in the months that he’s been with us the quality and the personality that he has to play at the level that we want.
“We are trying to do that [extend his contract] because we know he can be a really important part of our plans.”
When asked if the contract talks are progressing well, Arteta said: “I hope so. That is more to Edu and the board to be discussing with him, but what I know is the players is really happy and really wants to be here, and that is the main thing.”
