Arsenal close to firming new deals for three first-team young superstars
By Kian Long
Things are looking bright for Arsenal. So bright, that youngsters who could play in most European teams will want to stay in North London.
Time and time again, there has been the same saddening tale for Arsenal fans. They will watch a player sign for the club, become an absolute world-beater, and then a few seasons down the line, that same player will end up leaving the club free of charge because the board failed in their negotiations for a new deal.
I know – It’s a story I know too well. Well, the good news is that the Gunners are willing to fix old habits – as we’ve seen multiple times throughout this terrific season.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Mikel Arteta is eager to secure new deals for William Saliba, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. All three players have been subject to moves away from the club in the past, but they have been enjoying life this season that they are willing to commit their future. It’s only a matter of time now.
Mikel Arteta: “Saliba & Gabriel were outstanding, both. They did great job again”. ⚪️🔴 #AFC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 6, 2022
Arsenal already extended Gabriel’s contract until 2027 after rejecting 2 approaches in July — now working on Saliba’s new deal as main priority alongside Saka and Martinelli. pic.twitter.com/xuxNDQVb2C
Saliba, Saka and Martinelli have been three of the first names on the team sheet this season and it’s clear to see why. Saliba, who spent the last couple of seasons out on loan, has been an absolute brick wall at the back and his composed nature on and off the ball indicates a breath of fresh air from what has been known to be a shaky Arsenal defece in recent seasons.
Furthermore, things have been ticking in attack for the Gunners and this is largely thanks to Martinelli and Saka. The two speedy and tricky wingers have been productive with the ball at their feet – Martinelli with terrific dribbling and directness and Saka with plenty of creativity.
Arsenal will be in first place of the Premier League table heading into the World Cup break, so something that Arteta and his players are doing must be working. While signing new players is important, keeping those players that gel well is infinitely more important. Therefore, this is a great use of the Gunners’ resources.
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