Marseille president wants to keep Arsenal defender William Saliba

Marseille president Pablo Longoria has suggested that he will attempt to sign Arsenal defender William Saliba on a permanent basis.

Despite being far down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium at the beginning of the season, the 20-year-old has starred during a loan stint back in France.

Saliba has played in all but one of Marseille's 26 matches in Ligue 1, featuring in a side which currently occupy second position in the standings.

If reports are to be believed, Saliba may be given a chance at his parent club during the next campaign, but it appears that Longoria is ready to pounce should the relevant parties be able to agree terms over a transfer.

Speaking to La Provence, Longoria said: "It's a three-way question. For the club that owns the player, Arsenal, the player and Marseille. We have to see our possibilities. He is very happy here, we are very satisfied with his performance.

"William is one of the best young defenders I have seen in my career. After all, everything depends on the three parties. It's a matter of market value."

Saliba possesses a contract at Arsenal until 2024, realistically leaving the Premier League side to act if they want to retain his increasing price tag.