Arsenal response to Bukayo Saka warning will prove where the club's long-term ambitions lie

Champions League qualification is seen as pivotal in the rebuilding process for Arsenal, but that has now been intensified due to Bukayo Saka’s contract situation.

Saka is viewed as one of the club's most valuable assets and understands that the Gunners have made extending the current contract of the youngster a major priority ahead of the summer transfer window.

However, reports from the Daily Mail have suggested that Arsenal may struggle to convince Saka to commit his future to the club if they fail to qualify for the Champions League.

Mikel Arteta’s side will not have a better chance of reaching the top four, with them currently having the advantage going into the final stretch of the season, and they must grasp the opportunity with both hands in order to avoid losing the club’s most important player.

A lot of pressure has been put on Bukayo Saka to carry Arsenal out of tough situations as he is the most direct player in the team, which has also led to him being the most used player under Arteta since he took control of the team in 2019.

The academy graduate is in the top five for appearances made for Arsenal before turning 20, meaning he is above legends such as David Rocastle and Liam Brady.

After his breakthrough season in 2019/20, where he scored five goals and made 11 assists, he was rewarded with a new long-term contract and handed the number seven shirt - a jersey he has worn with pride as he attempts to follow in the footsteps of the late great, Rocastle.

However, the contract he signed at the end of that season is set to expire in 2024, meaning the youngster will have two years remaining on his deal at the end of this season.

Manchester City and Liverpool are reportedly interested in the winger, and