Arsenal in contract talks with Bukayo Saka

Arsenal have initiated contract talks with Bukayo Saka and his agent as the player is reportedly happy with the Gunners’ sporting project.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have begun contract extension talks with Bukayo Saka’s agent. A new deal for their attacker is a priority for the Gunners, with the England international happy with the project.

Arsenal have switched their attention towards the priority matter of extending Bukayo Saka’s contract. The 20-year-old has been the club’s best player in the last 18 months, and the Gunners are prepared to reward him significantly with a new deal.

Saka’s current contract has two years left, and any further delay would put Arsenal at risk of losing him. Hence, the Gunners want to renew his contract and reportedly are willing to offer a bumper wage package.

Mikel Arteta considers Saka central to his project and wants to keep him at the Emirates at all costs. The north London giants have already begun talks with his agent over a long-term deal and are reportedly discussing salary details.

Bukayo Saka’s contract extension has always been priority for Arsenal, talks are still ongoing with his agent in order to reach full agreement on long term deal. ⚪️? #AFC

Saka’s happy with Arsenal project, discussing on salary details. pic.twitter.com/v7p0FE8OUs

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 15, 2022

The biggest worry for Arsenal over Saka is the potential interest coming from Manchester City. The Premier League title holders allowed Raheem Sterling to join Chelsea and may dip into the market for a replacement.

Reports suggested Man City are already planning an approach for Saka in 2023, although the English champions denied their interest in the 20-year-old. He will undoubtedly be a player on Pep Guardiola’s mind, but the Gunners may look to kill such a conversation. Saka likes the current project at Arsenal, which should provide optimism over his extension.

Furthermore, the Gunners have also reportedly initiated new contract talks for young defender William Saliba, as Arteta plans to keep hold of their talented young stars and build his team around them.

A new deal for Saka represents something big for Arsenal and their fanbase. The Hale End graduate has made 131 appearances for the club, scoring 23 and assisting 29 goals. Seeing him play for a rival would be a blow for the supporters. However, there is optimism from all camps that the Gunners will want to wrap his extension up as quickly as possible.