Reports claim the Gunners might struggle to tie academy graduate Bukayo Saka to a new long-term contract, with his current deal set to expire in 2024. Elsewhere, the Red Devils are being linked with West Ham United attacker Jarrod Bowen.
Missing out on UEFA Champions League football for yet another season could be catastrophic for Arsenal. The Daily Mail reports that the club’s future participation – or lack thereof – in the competition could affect contract negotiations with winger Bukayo Saka, whose current deal expires in June 2024.
One of the brighter sparks of Arsenal’s season thus far, Saka has captured the attention of heavyweights Liverpool and Manchester City. Both clubs are reportedly monitoring the England international’s situation at the Emirates and could be tempted into launching a move for him in the future – should he find himself disillusioned with the current project at Arsenal.
A first-team regular since the 2019/20 season, Saka has scored six league goals this term for the Gunners, currently amid a Champions League qualification battle against rivals Manchester United, Tottenham, and West Ham.
One of the Champions League hopefuls, West Ham, are expected to struggle to keep hold of their best players in the summer. The Hammers are likely to receive interest from bigger clubs for the services of Declan Rice.
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However, the midfielder isn’t the only player turning eyes, Manchester Evening News report United are keen on signing Jarrod Bowen, sensing an opportunity to sign the attacker, after Liverpool and City, bolstered their ranks with the signings of Luis Diaz and Julian Alvarez. The 25-year-old is contracted to West Ham until 2025 and is valued at 35 million euros presently.
Manchester United bolstered the right side of their attack with the signing of Jadon Sancho last summer but are keen to add further firepower to their team. Bowen fits the bill; the Englishman has scored seven goals and provided seven assists this season, playing a key role in the Hammers’ European push.
In comparison, United’s best attacker, Bruno Fernandes, has scored seven and provided five assists across all tournaments this season.
