Arsenal eye ex-Man City defender as Saliba injury fears grow
Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 22.07.26. | 23:45
William Saliba faces an extended spell on the sidelines, with free-agent John Stones emerging as one of the Gunners' leading defensive targets
Arsenal could be forced into a major defensive signing after confirming that William Saliba will spend an extended period on the sidelines with a back injury.
The Premier League champions have already stepped up their search for reinforcements, with former Manchester City defender John Stones emerging as one of the club's leading targets to fill the void left by the France international, The Athletic reports on Wednesday.
Saliba suffered the injury during France's 2-0 FIFA World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain, pulling up after just 30 minutes before signalling to the bench that he could not continue.
Following further examinations in London, Arsenal confirmed that surgery will not be required, but the 25-year-old faces a lengthy rehabilitation programme.
"William Saliba has returned to us from World Cup duty. Subsequent specialist reviews... have confirmed that he has suffered a back injury which will require a period of rehabilitation," Arsenal said in a statement.
"Extensive assessments have concluded that surgery is not recommended... William is expected to be out of action for an extended period."
The setback has accelerated Arsenal's plans to strengthen at centre-back before the transfer window closes.
Stones, who became a free agent after leaving Manchester City at the end of last season, is firmly on the Gunners' radar. The England international spent a decade at the Etihad Stadium and already has a close working relationship with Mikel Arteta, having played under the Spaniard during his three years as Pep Guardiola's assistant.
The 32-year-old also featured prominently for England at the 2026 World Cup, making five appearances and starting three matches.
Another player admired by Arsenal is Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa, although reports suggest there remains a considerable gap between the two clubs' valuations.
Saliba's absence would be a significant blow for the north London side.
The French defender made 50 appearances in all competitions last season and was one of Arsenal's most reliable performers during their title-winning campaign. He also started six of France's seven World Cup matches, sitting out only the final group-stage fixture against Norway.