Arsenal transfer news: Pundit issues ‘massive’ Bukayo Saka claim after Romano update
Bukayo Saka’s willingness to discuss a new contract at Arsenal will be a “massive relief” for Mikel Arteta, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 20-year-old is showing his “ambition” by taking his time before committing to a “lucrative” Gunners deal.
Speaking on the Here We Go podcast (23 February), journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed he sees “no problem” surrounding a potential new contract for Saka this summer.
He claimed the starlet “loves Arsenal” but is “only focused on the race for the Champions League” at present.
Whelan hailed Saka’s stance and claimed stalling talks is “the right way to go about it”.
“That’ll be a massive relief for Arteta and the fans,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“They’re building a very good, young team at Arsenal. There was absolutely no way that they’ll have wanted to worry about getting a replacement for Saka this summer.
“He’s one of their best players and most valuable assets, and he’s so consistent. I think he was just wanting to concentrate on the job in hand – and that is getting Arsenal back to where they belong, the Champions League.
“He hasn’t rushed into the decision to stay, which just shows his ambition. I’m sure it would’ve been a lucrative offer, but he hasn’t put the money first.
“There’s a culture at Arsenal right now and he’s a huge part of that togetherness. He’s concentrating on doing the best he can for Arsenal right now, and that’s the right way to go about it.”
Arsenal are in pole position to secure a Champions League return.
They sit just two points adrift of fourth-placed Man United with three games in hand.
Saka has notched eight goals and four assists in 29 games this term.
In other news, Kieran Maguire reveals Arsenal have been hit with “financial penalties” after £107m reveal.