“English Winger Bukayo Saka Extends Contract with Arsenal until 2027”

LONDON (AP) — Arsenal ensured the long-term continuity of their youth player Bukayo Saka by announcing the extension of the contract with the English winger on Tuesday.

Saka, 21, extended his relationship until 2027 with the club he joined as a child and in which he made his debut with the first team four seasons ago.

The attacker shone in a campaign that saw Arsenal challenge for their first Premier League title in 20 years until they were passed by Manchester City late on.

“I think this is the ideal club, the ideal place to take the next step,” Saka was quoted as saying on the Arsenal website. “It’s a beautiful club, look where we are.”

The Gunners led the Premier League for most of a vibrant champions league, but the precocious team could not resist the push from reigning champions City, who possessed a more experienced and far more expensive squad.

Saka has scored 14 goals this season, two more than in the previous one. He has performed in each of Arsenal’s Premier League matches.

“I think I have everything I need to become the best player I can be, and that’s why I’m happy to stay here and stay for the future, because I really believe we can achieve great things,” Saka said.

Saka is eyeing his Champions League debut when he returns to Europe’s top club tournament next September for the first time in seven seasons.

“He is a special person, loved by all and a source of pride for him and his family for all the hard work and commitment to reach this level,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.