Liverpool have been linked with the transfer of Lille forward Nicolas Pepe. It is believed that the Reds are carefully weighing their options for the player as they look to strengthen the attack.
The Reds already have an alternative option in Bournemouth forward Ryan Fraser. The Scottish international is valued at £30 million which is half the price demanded for Pepe.
Meanwhile,ESPN reports that Arsenal have already tabled a transfer worth £30 million for the Frenchman.
Saliba is interested in the move and has already agreed on personal terms with the Premier League club but there have been stumbling blocks so far.
Saint Etienne want the player back on loan for next season which the Gunners have objected to.
Saint Etienne new manager Chislain Printant has revealed that there is a strong possibility of a transfer but the club has not decided on anything. He, however, admitted that the player was coveted by several clubs.
With his statements, Printant has actually corroborated reports that Saliba is nearing an exit from the French club.
French media claims that the negotiations between Arsenal and Saint Etienne are ongoing with only minute details remaining.
Saliba is regarded as one of the top defensive talents in French football.
Arsenal are of the view that the defender can go straight into the first team next season and could provide a long-term solution to their defensive woes. This transfer looks like one that is likely to happen sooner than later.
The arrival of Gabriel Martinelli to the Emirates signals the beginning of the transfer window for the Gunners.