Arsenal are only likely to sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi if William Saliba leaves the club this summer, Arsenal Insider understands.
It comes as the Gunners have done extensive scouting of potential additions for their backline over the transfer window.
The priority for Andrea Berta has been the forward areas, as a striker and winger are on the cards, while the arrivals of Martin Zubimendi and Kepa Arrizabalaga are close.
However, Arsenal have been keeping their options open with defenders, as the sporting director could be called into action if the backline changes.
William Saliba looks on during an Arsenal match
Marc Guehi is only likely to join Arsenal if William Saliba leaves
Arsenal have been linked with Marc Guehi as a transfer option this summer, with just 12 months remaining on his contract at Crystal Palace.
Liverpool are also interested in Guehi, with the Premier League champions pushing hard to improve their squad.
The defender may be tough to land for both teams, though, given his aim of being in the England team for the 2026 World Cup squad.
That’ll mean first-team minutes are a must, which may not be available at the Emirates Stadium next season.
Given the new contract for Gabriel Magalhaes this summer, that would only be possible if William Saliba were to leave.
Saliba has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, though Arsenal currently have no intentions of making a sale.
Arsenal Insider spoke to transfer expert Graeme Bailey about the situation, who said: “Arsenal like Guehi, they have for a while. However, with Arsenal, a move this summer is unlikely unless we see William Saliba exit, which is not part of their plans in any way.
“Guehi won’t be moving anywhere if he is not in the team, he has an England World Cup spot to think about.
“Guehi has a host of options available to him, but there is almost certainly going to be more next summer when he is on a free.”
Should Arsenal sell William Saliba to sign Marc Guehi?
Arsenal face a crucial decision over their backline in the next year, with several factors to take into account.
One of those is the future of Jakub Kiwior, who has been linked with a potential exit over this summer window.
If the Polish international moves on, then Arsenal will have to consider other options to play as a backup centre-back.
Arsenal are stepping up talks over a potential stay, though it is currently unclear whether he will commit to a new deal.
If, in one year’s time, things don’t change, then it may be time for the Gunners to make some tough decisions.
That could involve a sale for Saliba, rather than losing him as a free agent, opening up the possibility of reinvesting elsewhere.
A switch for Guehi, as a free agent next summer, could save a lot of money for Arsenal, while bagging a bargain in the market.
Any money raised from selling Saliba could then be used elsewhere, working wisely in the market to keep the squad evolving.
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