Arsenal's William Saliba injury crisis; surgery option; up to 5 months out; forces Arteta into centre-back market
Key Questions
How serious is William Saliba's injury?
Arsenal fear Saliba could be absent for up to five months with a back issue that may require surgery. The injury is a major blow to the Premier League champions.
How will Saliba's absence affect Arsenal's transfer plans?
The lengthy lay-off has forced Mikel Arteta to urgently enter the centre-back market. It is also shifting dynamics in the title race.
Who could replace Saliba at Arsenal?
Arsenal are reportedly pursuing Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa as potential cover. A £35m bid is being considered for the England international.
Arsenal fear lengthy William Saliba absence (up to 5 months) due to a back issue that may require surgery. This is a massive blow for the Premier League champions and Champions League finalists, forcing Arteta to enter the transfer market for a centre-back. Changes title race dynamics and adds urgency to Arsenal's summer business.