Bukayo Saka signs long-term Arsenal contract

Arsenal teenager Bukayo Saka has signed a new long-term contract with the club.

The 18-year-old, who came through the club’s academy, has made a major impact during the current season after making his debut in the Europa League in 2018.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta told the club’s official website: “Bukayo is a talented and intelligent young player.

“He has impressed me with his work ethic and attitude to learn and adapt, and it has paid off in his performances. I am excited to continue working with him to develop him further, and for him to help us achieve our goals.”

Saka has continued to impress, predominantly in a wing-back role, since he made his Premier League debut at the age of 17 in the 4-1 win over Fulham last season.

The Gunners were under increasing pressure to tie him to the Emirates Stadium following reported interest from Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund.

Gunners technical director Edu said: “This is something everyone involved wanted to happen and we are delighted that Bukayo has signed a new long-term contract.

“He’s making great progress and is one of a number of young players who have developed through our academy. This is so important for us as we move forward as a club.”

Meanwhile, Arsenal have responded after Saint-Etienne accused the Premier League club of imposing “unacceptable sports and financial conditions” during negotiations over William Saliba extending his loan with the French side.

The defender will now return to England after no agreement could be reached between the teams over the centre-back remaining in France to allow him to play in the French Cup final on July 24.

On Tuesday, a club statement from Saint-Etienne read: “ASSE, which simply wanted the extension of the initial loan until July 24, could not find an agreement in the evening with Arsenal to allow the defender to properly prepare and play this meeting, the English club imposing absolutely unacceptable sports and financial conditions.”