Bukayo Saka: I’m enjoying myself at Arsenal, not concerned about contract talks
Bukayo Saka has revealed he ‘is enjoying’ himself at the Emirates and he has no time for contract talks.
According to Saka, he would want his parents and agents to handle anything relating to Arsenal’s future — so that he can continue learning from boss Mikel Arteta.
The Gunners want to tie the 18-year-old to a lucrative new long-term contract to replace his current deal, which finishes next year.
Arsenal are aware of Manchester United’s growing interest and accept they will have to award Saka a big pay rise to keep him.
But the winger prefers to do his talking on the pitch and said: “I leave all that contract stuff to my agent and my parents.
“I’m just enjoying my football playing under the new coach, so we’ll see what happens.”
Arteta is not part of the negotiation process but sees Saka as key to his long-term plans.
He said: “Part of his development is to improve the contract and tie him to the club but I have to follow a natural process.
“I’m sure we will do the right thing when players deserve improved contracts.”
Saka has been filling in at full-back for the injured Kieran Tierney and Sead Kolasinac since Arteta took over in December.
And he is using the experience to learn important lessons.
He said: “I don’t see myself as a long-term full-back but for now I’ll do the job the manager asks me to.
“My dream was to be a winger, affect games, score goals and get assists.
“I’m learning a lot about how Premier League wingers play against defenders and how to position myself.
“It will be valuable experience because I’ll know how full-backs play and what they don’t like from wingers.
“I’m really enjoying my football under the new manager. He’s giving me all the advice I need.”
Saka was delighted with his nutmeg on Valentino Lazaro before teeing up Nicolas Pepe’s goal in Sunday’s 4-0 win over Newcastle.
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He added: “I was happy it came off but the important thing was to keep my composure and find the right player to score.
“Sunday shows we can score goals and shut up at the back.”