Word stemming from the European media on Thursday suggests that West Ham United are expressing a keen interest in an up-and-coming member of capital rivals Arsenal’s ranks.

The player in question? William Saliba.

The info comes by way of France, where stopper Saliba is of course currently in the midst of a starring loan stint with Olympique Marseille.

As per a report from Jeunes Footeux, West Ham, in desperate need of central defensive reinforcements, and hotly tipped to land Saliba’s current teammate Duje Caleta-Car throughout January, have set their sights firmly on a summer swoop for Arsenal’s starring youngster.

In fact, it is claimed that the 20-year-old has emerged as something of a ‘priority’ at the London Stadium, with the Irons’ board ready to part with as much as 30 million euros to push a deal over the line ahead of next season.

It of course now remains to be seen whether or not Arsenal would be willing to sanction Saliba’s sale without the stopper having ever stepped foot on the pitch for the club, particularly when taking into account West Ham’s emergence as genuine top-6 contenders in the Premier League.

West Ham identify Arsenal starlet as ‘priority’ signing ahead of summer window

LENS, FRANCE – JANUARY 22: William Saliba #2 of Olympique de Marseille challenges Seko Fofana #8 of RC Lens during the Ligue 1 Uber Eats match between Lens and Marseille on January 22, 2022 at Stade Bollaert-Delelis in Lens, France. (Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)

Pepe on target

Switching focus to one of those on Arsenal’s books who is part of the current first-team setup under Mikel Arteta, Nicolas Pepe today provided a timely reminder to his boss of his immense goalscoring abilities, when firing on all cylinders.

After finding the net twice at the Africa Cup of Nations late last month, wide-man Pepe followed up with a sumptuous strike in Gunners training on Thursday.

The finish, which saw the Ivorian pick out the far top corner with almost laughable ease, is showcased below:

 

Bukayo Saka sends Arsenal farewell message to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Arsenal training footage hints at altered role for Gabriel Martinelli