Key Highlights
- Mikel Arteta believes Bukayo Saka can ‘leave a legacy’ at Arsenal.
- Bukayo Saka has been crucial for Arsenal this season, scoring three goals in nine Premier League games.
- Arsenal are close to finalizing a new long-term deal with Saka.
- Arteta emphasizes the healthy relationship between Saka and the club, aiming to maintain the core of the team.
The Arsenal-Focused Future
Mikel Arteta, manager of Arsenal, has sent a clear message to star player Bukayo Saka regarding his contract situation. Arteta believes that Saka can “leave a legacy” at Arsenal if he decides to extend his stay with the club.
Key Player in the Title Race
Bukayo Saka’s importance to Arsenal cannot be overstated. Since breaking into the team in 2019, Saka has been virtually ever-present and has scored three goals in nine Premier League games this season, contributing significantly to the Gunners’ early title race hopes.
Contract Talks Progressing
Arsenal’s current deal with Saka expires in just 18 months. However, despite this tight timeframe, there is no apparent concern that Saka will turn his back on his boyhood club. Reports suggest that both parties are getting closer to an agreement over a new long-term contract.
Arteta said: “Well, what I’m very aware of is that he wants to continue with us.” He added, “He’s very happy that he’s in the place that he wants to continue to be and achieve everything that we want to achieve together.”
In fact, Arteta’s approach to contract negotiations with key players like Saka mirrors Liverpool’s proactive stance. By securing long-term deals for their star talents, Arsenal aim to maintain a strong core of experienced players.
Proactive Contract Strategy
Arsenal have already extended contracts with other key players such as Gabriel and William Saliba this summer. Additionally, academy graduates Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly have also signed long-term deals after their first-team breakthroughs.
Arteta added: “I think it is a very healthy and powerful relationship, the journey that he had at the club and what he has become. It is something we want to maintain and I think that it is something that will leave a legacy at this football club.”
The manager’s emphasis on maintaining this core group of players underscores Arsenal’s commitment to building a sustainable and successful team for the long term.
