Ornstein Reveals Arsenal Starlet Is “Coveted By Many Clubs” After Contract Talks Hit The Buffers

Ornstein Reveals Arsenal Starlet Is “Coveted By Many Clubs” After Contract Talks Hit The Buffers

The Athletic journalist David Ornstein has confirmed that Arsenal failed to agree terms with Bukayo Saka over a new contract before the lockdown put an end to negotiations.

The 18-year-old’s current deal expires at the end of next season, with the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Barcelona reportedly keeping tabs on his situation. Ornstein says the Gunners still have work to do to tie the winger down for the long term:


“Nope, didn’t get it done before lockdown despite pushing hard and now all quiet as Arsenal focus on their proposed wage cut negotiations.”

“They’ll be keen to tie him down ASAP, especially as he is coveted by many clubs. He only earns £5kpw so can expect a big uplift whatever happens and regardless of the current crisis.”

Saka’s performances this season certainly deserve a significant pay rise. The teenager has scored three goals and contributed nine assists in 30 appearances despite often being deployed out of position at left-back.

As Ornstein mentions, though, Arsenal are currently focused on getting players to agree to a pay cut, with the London club facing a significant shortfall in their finances due to the postponement of league games.

Talks are said to have progressed with the Gunners now increasingly confident that an agreement can be reached.