Arsenal intend to begin formal discussions with Bukayo Saka over a new contract ahead of his comeback from a long-term hamstring injury, according to a report.
The 23-year-old - who is reportedly targeting a return from his operation in time for the first leg of the Gunners' Champions League quarter-final with Real Madrid - will enter the last two years of his agreement this summer as things stand.
Saka last agreed a four-year extension with the North London giants in the summer of 2023, since when he has continued to come on leaps and bounds under the wing of Mikel Arteta.
Despite not making a single appearance since December, Saka has still provided the joint second-most assists (10) in the current Premier League season, only fewer than Mohamed Salah's 17 for Liverpool.
There are no genuine concerns about Saka's future with his boyhood club, but according to BBC Sport, Arsenal are now planning to open official talks with his representatives over a renewal.
Arsenal to make Saka renewal 'top priority'
© Imago
The report states that the Gunners do not want any lingering uncertainty over Saka's future at the club, and agreeing another long-term renewal with his camp is one of their top priorities.
Arsenal have apparently already commenced 'early moves' to tie the 23-year-old down to a new contract, and the Gunners are likely to ramp up their efforts to retain his services in the near future.
However, top European teams are supposedly set to keep a close eye on how developments pan out, after Saka was the subject of firm interest from Manchester City before signing his current Arsenal deal.
The England international's last appearance for Arsenal against Crystal Palace in December was his 250th for the club, and he has come up with 67 goals and 63 assists across all competitions in that time.
Before entering the treatment room, Saka conjured up nine goals and 13 assists from his first 24 appearances of the 2024-25 season, and there is hope that he will be able to at least make the bench when Arsenal face Fulham on April 1.
Saka 'one of three players' to hold Arsenal contract talks
© Imago
There was a slight tinge of disappointment when Arsenal only managed to tie Saka down for four years as opposed to five in 2023, but there is seemingly little reason for the Hale End product not to sign on the dotted line again.
The Gunners are in the driving seat for Champions League qualification and will be expected to mount another Premier League title charge in the 2025-26 season, even if they have disappointed in the current term.
As well as Saka, the report adds that Gabriel Magalhaes has also been speaking to Arsenal over a new contract, as the 27-year-old's current terms are also due to expire at the end of the 2026-27 campaign.
However, Gabriel is understood to be on the radar of Saudi Pro League sides, as is Leandro Trossard, who can leave for free in 2026 but is also understood to have held talks regarding a renewal.
Saka's fellow winger Gabriel Martinelli has supposedly entered negotiations with the North London giants as well, but Thomas Partey and Jorginho are both due to leave when their deals expire in June.
Ben Knapton
