“He is one of the best" - Ex-Tottenham player Jermaine Jenas heaps praise on Arsenal star at EURO 2024
Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Jermaine Jenas heaped praise on Arsenal star William Saliba for his performance for France against the Netherlands at Euro 2024. The Frenchman was excellent as Les Bleus played out a goalless draw against Oranje at Red Bull Arena in Leipzig on Friday, June 21.
Saliba made one clearance and one block, won 1/2 duels, and completed 85/86 passes against the Netherlands. It was a solid performance as both sides shared the points. After the game, Jenas hailed the defender's performance, saying on BBC One (via TBR Football):
“He is one of the best in the business at that, William Saliba, in a one v one situation. Stays on his feet all the time. Doesn’t panic."
Saliba had an excellent 2023-24 campaign, which saw him make his way into France's starting XI at Euro 2024. He has played both games so far. He had a nervy performance in their 1-0 win over Austria but looked solid against the Netherlands. The 23-year-old has now played 17 games for Les Bleus.
At club level, Saliba joined Arsenal from Saint-Etienne in 2019 but spent time away on loan until 2022. He helped the Gunners keep the best defense in the Premier League last season, as they conceded just 29 goals and kept 18 clean sheets.
Arsenal close to completing signing of €120 million star: Reports
As per Portuguese outlet Leonino (via Caught Offside), Arsenal are close to completing the signing of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres. The report suggests that only the finances need to be sorted out. The deal could be worth around €120 million, including add-ons.
The Gunners have been on the lookout for a proper No. 9 after Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah scored just nine league goals between them last season. Kai Havertz did well as a centre-forward, registering eight goals and seven assists in 18 games. However, the north London side are still looking for a traditional striker.
Gyokeres racked up immense numbers for Sporting CP last season, having arrived from Coventry City last summer. He scored 43 goals and provided 15 assists in 50 games across competitions. Many clubs are interested in signing him but a potential deal wouldn't be cheap as his contract expires in 2028.