Saka has returned from injury for Arsenal in spectacular fashion in recent weeks, demonstrating everything that Mikel Arteta’s side had been missing.
The England international underwent surgery late last year after suffering a hamstring issue away at Crystal Palace – an injury which was a big blow to Arsenal’s title-hopes.
That being said, Saka was arguably Arsenal’s best player against Real Madrid up until Declan Rice’s stunning pair of free-kicks.
And after being rested from the start against Brentford on Saturday, Saka will now be raring to go at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Arsenal are tasked with holding onto a three-goal lead.
Andrea Berta is ready to make Bukayo Saka Arsenal’s highest earner
In terms of Saka’s contract situation, TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey understands that Arsenal are willing to offer the England forward £300k-a-week.
New sporting director Berta is leading talks and would ideally like Saka’s new deal to be in place before he departs for his summer break.
Saka’s current deal that he signed in 2023 runs until 2027, meaning he’ll have only two-years left in a few months’ time as things stand.
However, Berta made Saka’s contract a priority as soon as he arrived at the Emirates Stadium, along with the likes of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
Securing the future of three of Arsenal’s key players is almost seen as more important than any incoming transfer.
Arsenal are keen to ensure that current players feel as if they are treated with huge respect – explaining why new contracts are the priority.
Bukayo Saka has reassured Arsenal fans over new contract
Fortunately for Arsenal, Saka avoided any ambiguity over his desire to sign a new contract at the club when questioned before the first leg with Real Madrid.
Appearing at Arsenal’s press conference, Saka said it was ‘pretty clear’ that he wanted to stay.
He said: “For me, I want to win and I want to win wearing this badge.
“I think it is pretty clear — the fans know how much I love them and you saw when I came on on Tuesday [against Everton], I think they love me back so it is a good relationship. I am really happy to be here and I’m just focused on winning.
“I don’t think anyone is really in a rush. I have got two years left on my contract so it is pretty relaxed. Everyone knows my thoughts and I’ve let you guys know as well so I don’t think there’s any rush really.”
And as much as Saka might not be rushing to get things sorted, a situation he’s clearly very relaxed about, Berta is understandably keen to have things wrapped up sooner rather than later.
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