Mikel Arteta has reiterated his confidence that Bukayo Saka (24) and William Saliba (24) will commit their long-term futures to Arsenal, insisting both players are determined to remain central to the club’s project.
The pair, both 24, have just under two years remaining on their current contracts, which run until 2027. Negotiations are ongoing, with sporting director Andrea Berta spearheading talks. Arteta, however, struck an optimistic tone when addressing the media ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
“The good thing is the players want to remain here and they want to be a big part of the history in this club over the next few years,” he said.
As reported by BBC Sport, Saliba has previously been linked with Real Madrid, though he has downplayed speculation, stressing his focus on Arsenal. Saka, meanwhile, has repeatedly stated his desire “to win wearing this badge.” Their commitment would follow a trend at the Emirates, with Gabriel, Ethan Nwaneri, and Myles Lewis-Skelly all penning fresh long-term deals in recent months.
Saka will miss Saturday’s fixture due to a hamstring problem, while Saliba, managing an ankle issue, took part in training and remains in contention.
Saturday’s game marks Ange Postecoglou’s first in charge of Forest. Arteta, who has beaten the Australian in each of their last three meetings, expects a stern test. “He has a very clear way of playing, a very clear DNA,” Arteta said. “It will be a very difficult game.”
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