Arsenal legend Paul Merson has sensationally told the club to sell Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe in the summer transfer window if they refuse to sign new contracts.
Both Gunners academy graduates have become two of Mikel Arteta 's most trusted players, but Merson is sceptical over whether the pair of boyhood Arsenal fans will stick around.
While Saka is only tied down for another two years, the claim bizarrely comes after Smith Rowe penned a long-term deal - keeping him at the Emirates until 2026 - just seven months ago.
"They are top drawer and they are going to be vital to Arsenal finishing in the top four this season. But I think Arsenal should get them tied down now," Merson wrote in his Daily Star column.
"They should be talking now about five year contracts. Get them signed, and if they don't want to sign, then sell them in the summer.
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"Don't hang around and let them run their contracts down and let them go for next to nothing. Test the water because there will be teams chasing them."
While Arteta appears to be concentrating on new contracts for the likes of Alexandre Lacazette, Merson is focussing on the Gunners' "future" after both Saka and Smith Rowe scored in last Saturday's 2-1 victory over Brentford.
"If you get those two on five-year contracts, what a buzz that is if you're an Arsenal fan. You're thinking Arsenal are going places and the club's future is secure," he added.
"Saka and Smith Rowe both scored against Brentford. Straight after the game I'm calling their agents and saying: 'How much do you want?
"You should be giving these kids a pay rise. A big one. They're the future of Arsenal and you need to tie them down ASAP.
"Get them tied down now. Don't keep them waiting. That's all it is with Arsenal sometimes – wait, wait, wait. I'm worried they will leave."
Merson can, however, take comfort in Smith Rowe's comments when he agreed his new deal last July, telling the Evening Standard : "If Arsenal want me for the rest of my career, then I am going to stay here forever.
"It is always difficult [to stay at one club for your career], but for me personally I'd love to be here forever."
Saka, meanwhile, agreed fresh terms in 2020 and affirmed: "London is my home. Arsenal is my team.
"I'm so happy to finally announce my contract extension. I love playing for this club and I'm looking forward to what the future holds. The hard work continues so I can continue living my dream."
