Arsenal might not have it all their own way in securing a contract extension for Bukayo Saka, according to a report in the English media.

Bukayo Saka of Arsenal in action during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and West Ham United at Emirates Stadium on March 07, 2020 in London, United Kingdom.
LONDON, ENGLAND: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal in action during the Premier League match on March 07, 2020. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images)

The Guardian report that even before the football shutdown, Arsenal were already aware that tying Bukayo Saka down to a long-term contract extension wasn’t straightforward.

Arsenal are now aware they’re at risk of alienating the likes of Saka and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang with pay-cut talks, right when they’re trying to get those same players to commit to the club.

Many of “Europe’s giants” were paying attention to Saka already. They’re only going to push their interest more vehemently if they sense a rift between player and club.

At first, there were some suggestions the break from matches could help negotiations. The Telegraph claimed Arsenal were making talks with Saka a priority after the period of self-isolation ended.

The end of the Gunners’ isolation period led into the current country-wide lockdown, though. A month later, and they seemingly haven’t made any significant progress. It’s all a little worrying, as Saka’s deal expires in 2021.

The 18-year-old made 29 senior appearances this season, scoring three goals and assisting 10.