Arsenal have made first contact with Bukayo Saka’s agent, with formal talks and a contract extension offer set to follow soon.
David Ornstein reports for The Athletic that Arsenal have now held an initial conversation over the possibility of an improved deal for Bukayo Saka.
The winger’s current contract lasts until 2024 – assuming Arsenal choose to activate their 12-month extension option from 2023.
Arsenal are hoping to settle Saka’s future as quickly as possible, and after raising the issue in that recent meeting with his agent, it’s expected that formal talks and an offer will follow.
Arsenal are hopeful of success in the coming talks, but whether or not Saka signs will depend on the finances offered and whether or not the Gunners can get back into the Champions League.
Considering Champions League football is reportedly a factor in his decision, we certainly shouldn’t expect any serious progress before the end of the campaign.
As it stands, it’s going to be a while until we know whether or not Arsenal will finish in the top-four.
Fabrizio Romano reported earlier this month that many top clubs around Europe are following Saka, across all the top leagues.
Yet when questioned on Saka’s future, a source close to the player responded that he really loves Arsenal, the city, and the people are the club. As a result, Saka isn’t currently planning to leave.
Football.London had previously confirmed that Arsenal will look to reward Saka’s progress by offering him an extension at the end of the season.
In a press conference earlier this month, Mikel Arteta said that Arsenal will hold talks with Saka’s camp over a new contract.
“It is a conversation we are going to have with the player, then his agent, his family — [talks] which are going to be extremely important as well — so everybody is on board,” Arteta said.
“Obviously, our desire is to keep Bukayo as long as possible, because we are really happy. He is part of our club, our DNA, he is growing, he is maturing.
“His importance in the team is unquestionable and we want to keep our best talent, that’s for sure.”