Arsenal have become resigned to the fact that they may have to include a release clause in any new deal for winger Bukayo Saka, according to a report.
The academy product has hugely impressed at the Emirates Stadium in recent years since making his breakthrough into the first team, where he has scored 11 goals and registered six assists in 37 Premier League appearances so far this season.
The Gunners recognise his excellent form and wish to reward the 20-year-old with a new contract, but the Daily Mail are reporting that Saka may request a release clause to be included in any potential extension.
Saka has just 12 months left to run on the three-year deal signed back in 2020, although the club retain an option to trigger an additional year extension on top of the current contract.
However, Arsenal remain keen to tie down the long-term future of the England international, with talks over a further extension reportedly set to begin at the end of the season.
The report suggests that Saka is happy at the club and enjoys a strong relationship with manager Mikel Arteta, but a desire to play Champions League football is said to be pushing the youngster towards the insistence of a potential escape route in any offer from the North London club.
Since making his debut in the 2018-19 campaign, Saka has gone on to make 130 appearances for the Arsenal first team, scoring 23 goals.
Matthew Tranter
