Former Leeds striker Noel Whelan has backed two other key Arsenal stars to follow Gabriel Martinelli in signing lucrative new contracts at the Emirates.
Gunners striker Martinelli signed a new long-term contract with the club last Friday, with Sky Sports reporting the contract will last until the summer of 2027.
The Brazil international has scored seven goals and added three assists in 28 appearances in all competitions for Mikel Arteta’s top side this season.
The sun reports that Martinelli will now earn £180,000 a week, or £41.2m over the duration of his contract.
But the fact that both Saka and Saliba will be out of contract at the end of next season makes securing their future the next pressing issue for Emirates bosses.
England winger Saka is continuously linked with a move to Manchester City, while Saliba is known to be on PSG’s radar.
And with links to other clubs, Whelan believes it is imperative for Arsenal to link the two players as soon as possible.
He said Football Insider“Martinelli 100% deserves a contract with the season he has. But it’s about Saliba and Saka now. They are two integral parts of the team.
“They have to do everything possible to get them registered.
“I think the sticking point was about qualifying for the Champions League, but they will play 100 per cent in this competition next season.
“And that’s if they don’t go further and win the league.
“There is no doubt that they both look happy and deserve a massive new contract for what they have brought to this club.”
Saka links Real to a concern
While Saliba has proved a revelation for the Gunners this season, losing Saka would be a devastating blow.
The Three Lions star, who has also been linked with Real Madrid, has taken his game to another level this season and played a major role in Arsenal at the helm of the Premier League.
However, the Gunners may already be planning their life without Saka as they continue to be linked with Brighton striker Kaoru Mitoma.
Arteta’s men are back in action on Saturday when they welcome Brentford to the Emirates.
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