Arsenal warned William Saliba future rests on key summer transfer decision after Andrea Berta arrival | OneFootball

Sol Campbell hopes Saliba will be impressed by the club’s summer transfers

Arsenal legend Sol Campbell worries that William Saliba could depart if Andrea Berta does not nail his first transfer window as sporting director.

Saliba has stalled on extending his current deal, which is not due to expire until 2027. He said in March that he was happy at the club but in no rush to sign a new contract.

Arsenal invincible Sol Campbell (right) hopes Arsenal secure William Saliba extension

Offside via Getty Images

With the likes of Real Madrid reported to be interested in the Frenchman’s services, Campbell feels the player may be looking to keep his options open should Arsenal fail to bring in the right reinforcements.

He continued: “He’ll assess the type of players that Arsenal bring in and hopefully think, ‘Right, I’ve got some help now up front and in other places’ and be happy to sign a deal.

“But that’s on Arsenal to make that happen. That’s how you show players and convince them to stay. Watch what we do in the window and then come back and sign.”

He called on Berta to ensure the club throws its weight around in the summer transfer window, which this summer will be broken into two so as to allow Chelsea and Manchester City to add players ahead of the Club World Cup.

Arsenal’s most pressing transfer requirement is a prolific striker. As Gabriel Jesus struggles with injury and Kai Havertz not quite performing to the standard required, a consistent goalscorer could be the final piece of the puzzle as the Gunners look to claim a first Premier League title since 2004.

Among the names linked with a move to N5 are Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig, and Campbell believes Berta’s career on the continent could help to secure their signatures.

With the window due to open on June 1, the clock is ticking as Berta begins his preparations.