Losing Saliba for a prolonged spell changes the picture for Mikel Arteta. Even the best-drilled sides can look short at the back when one elite defender drops out, and Arsenal’s response seems to be pragmatic rather than panicked.
Other reports suggest Arteta is still pushing for more depth before the window shuts, with the manager keen to add quality where possible. In that context, Pubill fits the profile of a player being assessed rather than a deal close to completion.
“Marc Pubill é um dos nomes na lista do Arsenal. O Arsenal teve alguns contatos para entender o preço e tentar saber se existe uma chance de contratar Marc Pubill,” Romano said.
That sounds like due diligence more than a full assault on the market. Pubill is viewed as a defender who could increase competition and offer another option in a stretched department. For Arsenal, that matters. When injuries hit, versatility and depth become almost as important as star quality.
The problem is simple: Atlético reportedly want to keep him. When the selling club shuts the door early, the buying club either walks away or pays a premium to force the conversation. Right now, this looks more like a difficult file than an advanced negotiation.
Other reports have also linked Arsenal with Ezri Konsa, who may be seen internally as a more realistic route if the Pubill path stays blocked.
For now, the story to watch is whether Arsenal return with stronger intent or pivot to a more obtainable target. With the window still open and Saliba absent, the need has not gone away - only the difficulty of this particular move has become clearer.