Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta delivered a characteristically guarded response when pressed on the status of Bukayo Saka's much-discussed new contract, despite widespread reports that the deal is already signed.
Arteta plays it cool on contract talk
Speaking after his side's emphatic 4-1 FA Cup third-round victory away at Portsmouth, Arteta was asked directly if an official announcement on Saka's future was imminent. The Gunners boss offered a brief, non-committal statement, telling reporters: "When we have something to announce, we will do it."
This stance marks a shift from his comments in September, when he openly expressed his desire for the England international to extend his stay. Back then, Arteta stated he would "love" for Saka to sign and highlighted the winger's happiness and importance to the club.
Reports emerged on Friday suggesting Saka had already agreed to a new five-year contract that would secure his services at the Emirates Stadium until the summer of 2031. However, the club has yet to make any formal confirmation, creating an air of uncertainty.
Martinelli's hat-trick steals the show at Fratton Park
Attention on Saturday was firmly on the pitch at Fratton Park, where Arsenal navigated a potential banana skin against Championship side Portsmouth. The hosts took a surprise early lead through a fine strike from Colby Bishop, but parity was restored just five minutes later via an Andre Dozzell own goal.
From that point, Gabriel Martinelli took centre stage, netting a superb hat-trick to seal a comfortable 4-1 win for the Premier League giants. The Brazilian's performance was a perfect response after he faced some criticism for an incident involving Liverpool's Conor Bradley in a recent league match.
Arteta was full of praise for Martinelli's mentality after the game. "That's why to play for a big club, you need a big personality," the manager said. "I love it. Gabi, in every context that you throw him in... Today, he scored three goals. Tomorrow, he's going to train 100 miles an hour, for sure."
What happens next for Arsenal and Saka?
The victory keeps Arsenal's ambitions alive across four competitions this season. Their immediate focus now turns to a League Cup semi-final first-leg clash against Chelsea.
Meanwhile, the football world awaits official word from the club on Saka's contractual situation. The 22-year-old is widely regarded as one of the most crucial players in Arteta's project, making his long-term commitment a significant priority for the North London hierarchy. Fans will hope the silence from the club is merely procedural, preceding a major announcement in the coming days.
