Bukayo Saka is now ‘very close’ to signing a new contract at Arsenal, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Lowdown: Positive signs

90min have claimed that Premier League rivals Manchester City, alongside Real Madrid, are keeping tabs on the 21-year-old’s situation, though recent reports have since suggested that Edu is confident of tying him down before January.

Fabrizio Romano revealed that negotiations have been taking place for months, with the forward himself admitting that he feels hopeful that fresh terms can be agreed upon in the near future.

The Latest: Saka set for new deal

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke revealed that Arsenal are on the verge of reaching an agreement with Saka to commit his long-term future to the club.

“It seems all the noises coming out of Arsenal – from their camp as well as Saka’s camp – is that this deal is very close to being agreed, which will be a huge boost to everybody connected to the club.”

The Verdict: Arsenal’s key cog

If the Gunners do manage to fend off potential suitors and secure Saka’s services for the foreseeable, this would definitely be a huge boost for Mikel Arteta.

The England international has recorded 55 senior goal contributions during his time at the Emirates, and has already provided two assists and scored once in the opening six games of the new top-flight season (Transfermarkt).

This highlights just how influential he can be in the final third, and for someone still at such a young age, is showing all the right attributes to go on to become an Arsenal hero in years to come.