ARSENAL have reportedly stepped up their bid to sign defender William Saliba with a £30million offer.
St Etienne’s 18-year-old centre-back has caught the attention of both the Gunners and their North London rivals Tottenham.
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But Unai Emery’s side has made their move by making a £30m bid, according to Yahoo Sports, which is close to the French club’s valuation.
Arsenal are said to have already agreed personal terms with the youngster but are yet to strike a deal with the club.
Frenchman Saliba only broke into the St Etienne first-team last season and made 16 appearances for the first-team.
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Saliba fits the profile of player Emery has targeted since taking the reins at the Emirates last summer.
Like Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi, who joined last summer, Saliba is a promising youngster who is likely to increase in value.
But, should Arsenal capture the defender, he is likely to remain at St Etienne on loan next season.
Meanwhile, the Gunners’ top target for the summer is Crystal Palace ace Wilfried Zaha.
An initial £40m offer was rejected and the Ivory Coast international remained coy over his future.
Asked at the African Cup of Nations about a move to Arsenal, Zaha said: “I don’t know… we’ll see in the future.
“The only thing that’s on my mind right now is trying to win this cup.”
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