Following updates on the severity of William Saliba’s injury, Arsenal have been approached to sign Sporting CP defender Zeno De Basto.
Gunners journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that Saliba was sent off before half-time in France’s World Cup semi-final match against Spain, and the centre-back will be out for an “extended period”. “After extensive evaluation, we have concluded that surgery is not recommended, but Mr. William should begin a managed recovery program.
“William’s rehabilitation will begin immediately, with continued management of his injury, but he is expected to be out of action for an extended period of time.”
Mikel Arteta could therefore only need to sign a short-term replacement, with De Basto, who has been a mainstay for Sporting CP over the past two seasons and appeared in 72 games, including 12 in the Champions League, emerging as an option.
One of the Belgian’s most impressive attributes is his passing, averaging 7.0 accurate long balls per 90 in La Liga last season, the best in the entire division.
Saliba is also confident in possession, completing an average of 67.3 accurate passes in the Premier League in 2025/26, 13.1 more than any other member of Arteta’s squad.
As a result, the Sporting star could be a viable replacement for the Frenchman in that regard, although former Anderlecht manager Brian Riemer has suggested his “defensive qualities” are not as impressive as his possession abilities.
Arsenal offer Zeno De Basto a chance to sign him
According to a report from Caught Offside, Arsenal have been in contact with De Basto and his agent has told them he could be available for around 40 million euros (approximately 3.4 billion yen) this summer.
The Gunners are open to signing the 26-cap Belgian international as they continue their search for Saliba’s replacement, but formal negotiations have yet to take place.
Zeno De Basto’s performance in Liga Portugal in the 2025/26 season
17 games
2 assists
74.1 accurate passes per 90
3.7 clearance per 90
0.5 blocks per 90
What are the chances of Zeno De Basto joining Arsenal? | |
|---|---|
Arsenal open to transfer | Arsenal are open to signing De Basto, but have not yet pressed ahead with a deal, suggesting they are still considering their options. Saliba does not need surgery but is expected to be out for an extended period of time, which could increase the chances of Arteta’s side making a move for the Sporting defender. |
price tag revealed | However, paying £35 million for an unproven player in one of Europe’s top five leagues would be relatively expensive, especially considering there are lower-cost alternative leagues. |
More experienced options available | The Gunners have held negotiations to sign John Stones, who could be acquired on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City. There is also interest in Ezri Konsa, but Aston Villa are demanding £60m, which could be an issue. |
Arsenal are also keen to strengthen at the other end of the pitch this summer, with progress made on the signing of Atletico Madrid star Julián Álvarez.
Andrea Berta is currently in direct negotiations with the Argentine striker, with a transfer fee potentially worth up to £170 million.
