Saint-Etienne fear they may be forced to pass on re-signing Arsenal defender William Saliba.

The former ASSE star is available for loan in January and wanted back at his old club by coach Claude Puel.

However, Le 10 Sport says the deal could fall through due to finances.

ASSE lack the available funds to cover Saliba's wages - even if he was to accept a hefty pay-cut - and will rely on Arsenal covering a major percentage of his salary to get the deal done.

As such, the likes of Nice and Marseille are ready to step in and trump Saint-Etienne for the youngster's signature next month.