Bukayo Saka has asked to delay discussions over a new contract with Arsenal until the end of the season, prioritising the club's push for a top-four finish and Champions League qualification. The England international's current deal runs until June 2024, giving him no immediate pressure to sign.
Arsenal are keen to open talks with the 20-year-old, who earns around £35,000 a week, to reward his impressive form and ward off interest from Liverpool, Manchester City, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. Saka has been at the club since age eight and is described as loving the Emirates.
A Hale End academy graduate, Saka has contributed seven goals and four assists in 24 Premier League appearances this season. His versatility to play full-back, wing-back or winger on either flank makes him a valuable asset as part of manager Mikel Arteta's young core.
Arsenal legend Paul Merson has urged the club to act quickly, warning against repeating past mistakes. 'They have good young players, and they need to keep on top of their contracts,' Merson told Sky Sports. 'They can't get lazy and have players run down their contracts and leaving on a free.'
The club has learned from errors with Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil, Willian and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who left on free transfers or commanded huge wages in their 30s. Securing Saka's long-term future is seen as a top priority to avoid a repeat.
Finishing in the top four for the first time in five years would provide the encouragement Saka needs to sign a new deal. Arsenal are currently locked in a battle with Manchester United, Tottenham and West Ham for the final Champions League spot.
