Arsenal 'optimistic over Bukayo Saka fitness for Crystal Palace clash'

Arsenal are reportedly optimistic about Bukayo Saka's chances of being fit for Monday's Premier League clash with Crystal Palace.

The 20-year-old was named in the England squad for March's fixtures with Switzerland and Ivory Coast but was forced to withdraw after testing positive for COVID-19.

Providing Saka returns two negative tests, the Hale End graduate will be free to return to training ahead of Monday night's trip to Selhurst Park.

According to the Evening Standard, Arsenal are hopeful that Saka will recover from coronavirus in time for the game, but Takehiro Tomiyasu is more of a doubt after missing a behind-closed-doors win over Brentford B earlier this week.

Saka has amassed nine goals and five assists from 28 Premier League games this season, and Arsenal are reportedly preparing their opening proposal to extend the attacker's contract.

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale is understood to have a 50-50 chance of facing Patrick Vieira's side following a recent hip injury.