Arsenal may finally have made a breakthrough in negotiations for Bukayo Saka’s contract. 

What’s the word?

Speaking to CaughtOffside, Fabrizio Romano had the following to say on a new deal:

“The talks between Arsenal and Bukayo Saka’s camp have been going on since February. Arsenal consider Saka a key player and think his contract extension is like a new signing, it is a priority for this summer.

“The top English clubs have been monitoring the situation for some time but the good news for Gunners supporters is that Arsenal is the player’s priority: Saka loves the club and there is a negotiation in progress.”

Supporters will be delighted

Since bursting onto the scene in 2019, the youngster has been the talk of north London as Mikel Arteta nurtured him into the first team.

He has repaid the Spaniard back tenfold and looks to further thank him with his signature on a long-term contract.

Saka has quickly become one of the Gunners’ most important attacking assets, and he bagged a remarkable 11 goals and seven assists as he featured in every single one of their 38 Premier League games.

His average SofaScore rating of 7.04 is indicative of a solid performer, yet his pace and trickery make him something of a maverick coming onto his favoured left foot from the right flank.

The England international can score screamers or he can offer up a cultured close-range finish, and at just 20 years of age, he has the world at his feet.

Even after his disappointment at Euro 2020, his manager was quick to jump to his defence and sing his praises: “I think it was great for his career because the football world showed how much they like him and how much they respect him.”

He continued: “Then it’s about giving him that space. What he is already doing is phenomenal and he needs that room.”

To secure him at the Emirates for the foreseeable future is a huge statement of intent and a sign that Saka has bought into the project that Arteta is building. Supporters should be delighted to see that their star boy is set to stick around.

AND, in other news: Arteta can land Arsenal’s own Rio Ferdinand with bid for “magnificent” £18m-rated gem.