Mikel Arteta has revealed that he is “very confident” of extending Bukayo Saka ’s Arsenal stay amid interest from Liverpool - but admitted he wants a deal done so he isn't "distracted"
The England winger has just two years remaining on his current deal at the Emirates Stadium, with it being reported that the Gunners’ Premier League rivals were aiming to take advantage of that with a swoop at some point in the near future. Liverpool were credited with an interest, with Jurgen Klopp understood to be a big fan of the youngster. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola ’s Manchester City were also thought to be admirers.
Arsenal have remained firm in their stance over the academy graduate by insisting he is not for sale and aiming to agree a new deal with Saka. Arteta has now given an update on discussions and appears to be optimistic over the chances of Saka staying put.
Speaking ahead of Saturday evening’s trip to face Bournemouth, the Spaniard said: “I am very confident that we as a club and Bukayo and his family and agent are all aligned and now it’s about putting that on a piece of paper
“I would like that to get done because I don’t want players to be distracted in the season. But those things take time.”
Saka, 20, has been a star for Arsenal since making his debut for the North London club during the 2018/19 season. He has gone on to accumulate 133 appearances for his boyhood club, scoring 23 goals and providing 29 assists.
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He comes into the new season off the back of his most productive season at the Emirates Stadium having scored 12 goals and provided seven assists in all competitions last term. His displays for Arsenal have also seen Saka garner international recognition with 18 caps for the England national team and four goals.
Whilst Saka is expected to once again be a key player for Arsenal this season, one man who has already caught the eye is Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian swapped Man City for the Gunners in a £45m deal earlier this summer and has enjoyed a hot start to life at the Emirates Stadium.
Arteta has hailed the Brazilian for his performances for his new club, as well as his development since the pair were colleagues at the Etihad Stadium.
“Probably the biggest difference since I worked with him [Jesus] is his maturity. His language has improved so much and he’s got a different role here,” Arteta said. “I’m glad he’s enjoying and performing really well for the team.”
Both Jesus and Saka will certainly be aiming to play a role as the Gunners attempt to continue their perfect start to the season at the Vitality Stadium at the weekend.
