Man City ‘distance themselves’ from claims they are interested in Arsenal and England star
Man City will not make a move for Bukayo Saka, contrary to reports they are looking to take advantage of his uncertain future at Arsenal.
It was reported on Tuesday that the Premier League champions have ‘stepped up their interest’ in Saka, with his contract expiring in two years.
Bukayo Saka among seven England stars in most valuable XI outside Champions League
His current deal includes an option to extend his contract by another year, which would keep him with the club until 2024.
The Gunners are believed to be prioritising a contract extension for the 20-year-old after he showed his importance to Mikel Arteta’s squad in 2021/22.
Saka was Arsenal’s top scorer across all competitions this season, netting 12 times, including 11 in the Premier League as his side finished fifth.
The Daily Mail claimed that the north Londoners’ failure to qualify for the Champions League has ‘complicated’ talks over a new deal, with Man City and Liverpool said to be eyeing up a move.
However, the Manchester Evening News believe the England winger is not in City’s plans ‘for this or subsequent transfer windows’.
.@FabrizioRomano on Saka in March: “This boy really loves Arsenal. He’s in love with the club, city, people in the club. He’s super respectful with Arsenal & he’s not planning to leave. The feelings are very good, but it’s not a discussion that will take place now in March.” #afc pic.twitter.com/z1f5dxo37y
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) June 7, 2022
The Citizens have already signed two forwards ahead of the summer window, bringing in Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund and Julian Alvarez from River Plate.
City do have ‘the intention of refreshing their attack for years to come’ and are looking to bring in a new midfielder this summer. Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips is believed to be near the top of Pep Guardiola’s wishlist.
Meanwhile, former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott has urged Saka to remain at the Emirates.
Walcott told talkSPORT: “Obviously, when Manchester City coming knocking on the door, it is such a hard thing for any player really to turn down.
“He is very young, but I feel that he likes the area of London in Arsenal, the fans have been fantastic, and at the Emirates, which is one of the best stadiums I have ever played in.
“He has great support, and I will be intrigued. My heart says he will be at Arsenal next season, and we will see after that.
“He needs to understand that the playing opportunities will be limited at Manchester City. He will, of course, be more likely to win things, but it is not saying Arsenal won’t win things.”
