The Gunners manager, Mikel Arteta, believes the England youth international deserves his place in the first team judging by his excellent performances but needs to keep it up to stay there.
In a mediocre season for the London club that has seen two managers and a caretaker coach handle the affairs of the first team, Bukayo Saka has been one of the few shining lights.
The teen wonder has played as a winger, wing-back, and full-back, excelling in all three positions. He presently has two goals to his name, and no other Arsenal player betters his nine assists in all competitions.
However, he is yet to sign a new contract, with his current one expiring at the end of next season.
This impasse as fired up the interests of Arsenal’s Premier League rivals with Liverpool, in particular, believed to be ready to move for the youngster of Nigerian descent.
Arteta, however, has refused to be drawn into the contract saga with the rookie manager keen on continuing to get the best out of the 18-year-old.
“(The contract issue) is something the club has to get sorted,” Arteta told Sky Sports News.
“My priority is that he continues to play like he is doing, and he keeps developing. He is always asking the right questions.
“He is a very brave guy. Every time he gets into the final third, he is trying to cause problems for the opponent. He deserves these chances, he is doing very well, and that’s why he is in the team.
“He’s great for the club. If we can get players from the academy and give them real chances even when we have other people fit, it shows we believe in them. He’s responded well.”
Saka and his Arsenal teammates are set to square up against Everton in a Premier League encounter on Sunday.