Rookie Arsenal target Saliba told: You need to work hard

SAINT-ETIENNE captain Loic Perrin has warned William Saliba the hard work starts now, as the teenager closes in on a move to Arsenal.

The Gunners are expected to tie up a deal worth about £27million for Saliba this week, with the defenderder being loaned back to t h ee French club for the season as part of the agreement.

The 18-year-old has just one campaign of f i rs t-te a m football under his belt but hee shone in that time playinngg alongside Perrin in the heartrt of Saint-Etienne’s defence.

Perrin told French broadcaster RMC: “The hardest part begins for him now. He hasn’t played many Ligue 1 matches. I hope this year will allow him to collect playing time so that he leaves ready.”

Like Arsenal, Saint-Etienne are in Washington for their pre-season tour and as such it is hoped a deal for Saliba can be completed in the coming days.

The move for Saliba will not bring an end to Arsenal’s transfer business, though, with Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos (below) a possible arrival on loan. The club are also still interested in CeCeltic defender Kieran Tierney anand are expected to make a rerenewed approach after failing wwith offers so far.

Crystal Palace for ward WWilfried Zaha remains on AArsenal’s radar, too, although AleAlex Iwobi clarified claims that he mamay have to leave if the Ivorian arrives.

“I am up for the fight but the only time I would consider leaving is if I am not playing as much as I would like to,” Iwobi told The Sun. And he also tweeted: “I hope we sign world-class players and progress as a team.”