Pundit can’t believe Man City could complete ‘extraordinary’ Bukayo Saka deal after update
Noel Whelan has claimed it would take something “extraordinary” for Man City to steal Bukayo Saka away from Arsenal as discussions over a new contract continue.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested Gunners stars will believe they can “achieve anything” at the club following their stellar start to the 2022-23 season.
According to 90min (15 December), Man City are drawing up plans to sign young England duo Saka, 21, and Jude Bellingham, 19, after tying manager Pep Guardiola down until 2025.
Arsenal sensation Saka is yet to pen a new deal at the Emirates Stadium despite extensive negotiations behind the scenes.
He notched three goals and one assist for England at the World Cup – adding to his haul of five goals and six assists for the Gunners so far this season.
This site revealed last month (18 November) that Arsenal have told sponsors they are very confident of agreeing new terms with Saka – who is currently under contract until June 2024.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “Wow, you never say never in football, do you?
“Saka is in a really strong position right now. I’m sure Mikel Arteta, who is building something at Arsenal, will do everything to keep him.
“Arsenal have progressed under Arteta, they will be challenging – and that will have been the big demand for a player like Saka.
“Two years ago you couldn’t have said that.
“I think this season has been a head-turner for the Arsenal players, and they realise now that they can achieve anything by staying at the club.
“It would take something extraordinary to prise him away from that project, in my opinion.”
In other news, Kieran Maguire claims Man City are on course for £10m-a-year bonanza after official reveal.