Bukayo Saka agreeing to a new deal with Arsenal has put an end to Liverpool’s chances of signing him.
Arsenal star Bukayo Saka, whose current contract with the Gunners is set to expire in the summer of 2024, was previously linked with Liverpool for a surprise transfer swoop.
According to reports, the 21-year-old sensation will sign a long-term contract at the Emirates after making progress in negotiations with the team.
Saka’s current deal is set to end in June 2024 after Arsenal used a one-year contract extension clause, but the Gunners have always sought to sign one of manager Mikel Arteta’s most crucial players to new terms.
The Athletic reports that although there has been an agreement in principle, it may take some time for the England international winger to sit down and legally sign his new contract.
The Arsenal academy graduate, who became one of the most fearsome wingers in European football after breaking into the Gunners’ first team more than four years ago, was reportedly a target for Reds manager Jurgen Klopp, according to a number of publications.
Along with Juventus of Italy, his services were reportedly sought after by Manchester City’s competitors for the Premier League crown.
However, joining Liverpool always seemed impossible given that Saka spent 15 years of his life at Arsenal and Arteta had presided over the team’s stunning comeback over the previous two seasons.
Klopp’s team lags in seventh place while the Gunners enjoy their view from the top of the table. Following the Emirates hierarchy’s agreement earlier this month with Brazilian attacker Gabriel Martinelli on a new long-term contract, his choice to stay in North London is a significant boost for Arteta.
Saka and Martinelli both contributed to Arsenal’s comeback, and they both scored goals in the team’s important 4-2 victory over Aston Villa on Saturday.
Arteta stated he was “extremely certain” the 21-year-old will agree to a new contract as early as August. The Spaniard continued, “We as a club, Bukayo and his family, and his agency are all unified.
The next step is to write things down on a piece of paper. I want that to be finished because I don’t want the players to be preoccupied during the season. These things, however, require time.”
Saka hinted at a deal being close to being reached later that month. He heard Arteta’s remarks and replied, “Yes, I share his confidence. I’m truly at home here. I can truly sense the support from my teammates, coaches, and supporters. Here, I truly feel loved.”
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