Talks between Arsenal and "different class" player in advanced stages

Arsenal are at an advanced stage in talks with Bukayo Saka over a new contract, according to reports.

The Gunners have made an incredible start to the 2022/23 season. They sit top of the Premier League table after nine wins in their opening 10 games, and have an 100 per cent record in the Europa League after three games.

Mikel Arteta's side have lost just once in all competitions - that being a 3-1 defeat to Manchester United in September, a game in which Arsenal were arguably the better side for much of the 90 minutes.

The Gunners' summer signings, such as Gabriel Jesus, have mostly made excellent impressions.

Meanwhile, Arteta has integrated the returning William Saliba into central defence following several loan spells. The Frenchman has been one of the best defenders in the division so far this season.

Their success has also been down to the young core of existing first-team players at the club. For instance, Gabriel Martinelli has four goals and two assists in 10 Premier League appearances, and starred in their 3-2 win over Liverpool earlier this month.

In addition, Saka has been another star performer. He has four goals and four assists from 10 games, and scored the only goal in Arsenal's 1-0 win over Leeds last weekend.

Speaking on BT Sport after Arsenal's 1-0 victory over Bodø/Glimt in the Europa League last Thursday, club legend Martin Keown lavished praise on Saka (quotes via Football365): "Sometimes you need to grind out wins and stand up to the opposition, and play when you can play.

"When you get the ball to Bukayo Saka... he's just different class at the moment, this fella."

And according to new reports, the Gunners appear to be getting closer to agreeing a new contract with Saka.

Saka/Arsenal talks 'advanced'

The Athletic report that Arsenal are keen on agreeing new deals with several first-team stars, with Saka, Martinelli and Saliba highlighted.

All three players will see their current contracts expire in or before the summer of 2024, with Saliba's due to end in 2023. But the Gunners have options on all three players to extend those deals.

But it is claimed that Arsenal want to reward their players for their fine performances, rather than simply exercising the extension options.

The same source adds that negotiations with Saka are at "the most advanced" point of the three players - meaning Arsenal fans can perhaps start to get excited that one of their key players may be about to extend his stay at the Emirates Stadium.