Arsenal banking on Mikel Arteta 'persuasion' to tie Bukayo Saka, William Saliba & Gabriel Magalhaes down to new contracts amid Real Madrid interest

The Sun claims Arsenal are keen to hold talks with the key trio over contract extensions in the coming months, with all three on terms until 2027. The report adds the Gunners are confident manager Arteta can convince them to prolong their stay at the Emirates as they seek to finally end their Premier League title drought.

The report states a new deal for winger Saka is a 'formality', but Arteta knows Real Madrid are keeping tabs on centre-back Saliba. Meanwhile, fellow defender Gabriel has been linked with the Saudi Pro League. However, the club believes if they can land a top striker this summer, that will be the missing piece to deliver trophies, in addition to retaining these three.

Arsenal's policy in the past has reportedly been to avoid allowing top talents to get into the last two years of their deals; something Liverpool, for example, have not done with Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Arteta is also known for his ability to convince players of his project, notably convincing Declan Rice to join the Gunners over Manchester City in 2023.

Before contract talks take place, Arsenal return to Premier League action at home to London neighbours Fulham on Tuesday.