Overview
- Multiple outlets report Arsenal have made significant progress on a new long-term deal for Bukayo Saka that would place him among the club’s top earners, with some reports suggesting figures above £250,000 per week and others speculating higher.
- Sporting director Andrea Berta is advancing a wider retention plan, with Jurrien Timber in talks for improved terms and Declan Rice expected to be addressed next, according to The Sporting News.
- Mikel Arteta publicly praised Max Dowman’s training level while stressing careful load management for the 15-year-old, who has agreed scholarship terms and cannot sign a professional contract until age 17 under FIFA rules.
- Dowman became Arsenal’s second-youngest player at 15 years and 234 days with a league cameo against Leeds, and he is in contention for further minutes during domestic cup rotation.
- Arteta confirmed William Saliba and Gabriel Martinelli will miss the Brighton Carabao Cup tie through injury, as Saka voiced confidence that increased depth can keep Arsenal’s title push on track.