"A deal is in place..." Arsenal ‘reach agreement’ with star player over new long-term contract

Arsenal have reached an "agreement in principle" to extend Bukayo Saka's contract at the club, according to reports.

Saka has been one of, if not the most important player to Mikel Arteta this season, registering nine goals and eight assists in the Premier League.

His form has helped Arsenal go two points clear at the top of the table, with a game in hand over second-placed Manchester City.

There has been a degree of uncertainty surrounding his future, with City expressing an interest in signing the 21-year-old.

However, to Gunners' fans delight, Saka has reportedly agreed to a new deal at the Emirates.

Saka agrees new contract

Respected journalist David Ornstein told NBC Sports that both parties have reached an "agreement in principle" over a new deal.

Although it has not yet been signed, and may take some time to finalise, the deal is now firmly in place.

The exact terms are unknown. But Ornstein expects the deal to be for at least four years based on his previous terms.

Meanwhile, the contract is thought to make England's player of the Year the club's highest earner, after The Daily Mail reported he would be paid £200,000 per-week.

His priority was always to stay at Arsenal, and he is said to be 'convinced of the club's direction under Arteta.'

Ornstein also discussed William Saliba's contract situation, with the Frenchman's deal set to expire in 2024 after the club recently triggered a year's extension in his clause.

Ornstein revealed that neither party are close to an agreement as things stand. However, that could change as "he has spoken very positively about staying at Arsenal".

Aaron Ramsdale is thought to be next on the list, with Arteta seemingly keen to tie him down to a new deal in north London.

The 25-year-old has enjoyed an excellent campaign between the sticks, making a series of crucial saves to keep the Gunners' title hopes on track.