Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) shocked the summer transfer market when they announced a record-breaking €120 million deal to sign center-back William Saliba from Arsenal. This move came shortly after chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi gave manager Luis Enrique a whopping €800 million budget to strengthen their team, aiming to maintain their dominance in Ligue 1 and continue their European dominance following their recent Champions League victory. Saliba, one of the best center-backs in the world today, has become the name PSG has brought back, highlighting the French capital team’s great ambitions.
William Saliba, 24, cemented his place at Arsenal with an impressive performance, forming a wall of steel alongside Gabriel Magalhes in the back four. His confidence, ability to read the game, and ability to develop the ball from his inferior route attracted the attention of many big men, including Real Madrid. However, PSG quickly overtook the competition to sign the French star. With a €120 million price tag, Saliba has become one of the most expensive center-backs in football history, reflecting his value and potential as a pillar of defense.
The decision to sign Saliba is reportedly part of Luis Enrique’s strategy to build a complete squad, particularly in defense, where PSG is seeking a long-term replacement for Marquinhos. Saliba, with Premier League experience and an understanding of French football, is considered a perfect fit to strengthen the defense and bring stability to the team. Bringing Saliba back to his homeland is also a way for PSG to attract fans’ attention and strengthen their position in the transfer market.
However, this deal cannot avoid controversy. Some people believe that the €120 million price tag is too high, especially since Saliba’s contract with Arsenal still runs until 2027. Arsenal, despite its efforts to retain Saliba by negotiating a contract extension, was ultimately unable to refuse PSG’s huge offer. Arsenal fans expressed their disappointment on social media platforms, claiming that losing Saliba will be a blow to the team’s ambition to win the Premier League.
For PSG, this contract is a testament to the relentless ambition of Al-Khelaïfi and Enrique. After their Champions League success, the team aims to establish a dominant European football position. Saliba, with his talent and youth, is expected to be the foundation of PSG’s long-term success. With the exciting summer transfer window in sight, fans are expecting the following names to join the team and aim to conquer every title with Saliba.
