Report: Arsenal to open contract negotiations with 'special' star soon, but there could be real complications

By Sam Preston

Arsenal are all set to start contract talks with Bukayo Saka at the end of the season but understand it will not be straightforward.

That is according to the Daily Mail, who point out that the England international’s current deal expires in 2024.

The Gunners look set to miss out on next season’s Champions League and if fifth place is confirmed this weekend, that would be a setback in terms of getting Saka to commit his future.

Arsenal host Everton on Sunday, while Tottenham travel to Norwich in the knowledge that a point would seal fourth spot.

Arsenal to start Saka contract talks

The Mail report reads: “In reality, only Saka, Thomas Partey and Kieran Tierney would interest the traditional big six clubs. But moving forward, who’s to say Saka will stick around at the Emirates much longer? Talks over a new contract will take place after Sunday’s game versus Everton.

“However, those discussions, which were already heading for complications owing to the England star’s ambition to compete for major silverware and play Champions League football, will not be straightforward. Earning their seat back at European football’s top table would certainly have eased negotiations.

“Without it Arsenal are unquestionably on the back foot. Saka’s current deal expires in 2024 but can Arsenal really risk allowing a player – who would be worth close to £100 million – to enter the final two years of his contract?

“It’s a tough call. It’s imperative for Mikel Arteta that Saka commits to the club. The 20-year-old is their best player. But the fact a youngster who has played just three full seasons of professional football is widely-recognised as the club’s top man is worrying in itself.”

Saka is a Champions League player in waiting. He has been labelled ‘special‘ by Roy Keane, who is famously not forthcoming with his praise.

He has put Arsenal onto his back at times this term and hauled the club along, spearheading the Arteta revolution which centres around youth.

In the latter part of Arsene Wenger’s reign, Arsenal lost their best players at the points where they were trying to build something.

There is no suggestion that is imminent but it has to be a worry for Arsenal, and the outcome of these planned contract talks could have a huge bearing on the club’s future.