Saka close to new Arsenal contract – Arteta

Bukayo Saka could commit his future to Arsenal by signing a new contract soon, according to head coach Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal have agreed new deals for defender David Luiz, Pablo Mari and Cedric Soares, while midfielder Dani Ceballos consented to extend his loan from Real Madrid until the rest of the season. The futures of forwards Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette still remain unresolved.

Meanwhile, negotiations with Saka have reportedly hit a few snags earlier this year, and links with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United appeared almost immediately. However, it seems the 18-year-old winger-turned-fullback is set to remain in north London in the next few years. With three goals and 10 assists from 32 appearances in all competitions, Saka’s contribution for Arteta’s team has been significant this season, a rare ray of light in what has largely been an underwhelming campaign. His current deal is set to enter it’s final 12 months next week.

Speaking to the press ahead of his team’s trip to Southampton on Thursday, Arteta said Saka, his family and representatives are aware of the trust put in the youngster, and expressed a strong belief everything would be done soon.