WILLIAM SALIBA has secured a major boost for Arsenal by committing to a long-term association with the club.

The 23-year-old centre-back has become the key summer target for Real Madrid.

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However, the Frenchman stated: “I feel at home here.”

“I joined the club five years ago, but this is only my third season, and I’m enjoying everything — from the players and staff to the fans.”

During an Arsenal in the Community event at Ashmount Primary School in Islington, when asked about the possibility of staying at the Emirates for a long time, Saliba replied: “Yeah, absolutely.”

Arsenal secured his services for £27 million when he was just 18 years old, acquiring him from Saint-Etienne in July 2019 and subsequently loaning him back.

After additional loan spells at Nice and Marseille, the 6ft 3in Frenchman has made 102 appearances under Mikel Arteta, establishing himself as one of the finest defenders globally.

The lifelong Arsenal fan signed a new four-year contract with the club last summer.

Meanwhile, Carlo Ancelotti’s European champions are facing a defensive injury situation.

Former Bernabeu defender Rafael Alkorta, 56, remarked: “I admire Saliba; I would certainly sign him.”

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Meanwhile, the Gunners are looking to narrow the gap to four points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool with a victory at Fulham on Sunday.

Saliba’s defensive teammates Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori are currently undergoing fitness assessments.

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Injuries will keep defenders Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu sidelined.

Additionally, Arsenal will not have forward Reiss Nelson available, as Fulham cannot field the loanee against his parent club.