Mikel Arteta addresses Bukayo Saka’s Arsenal future amid Liverpool links ahead of Carabao Cup semi-final

Mikel Arteta has welcomed the fact that Bukayo Saka is attracting the interest of potential suitors amid Liverpool’s links.

Saka has been one of the Gunners' star performers this season and his performance have been a significant reason behind their rise into the Premier League top four.

What’s been said

The winger has scored seven times and recorded four assists in 23 appearances - with his past four goals coming in as many games.

It was claimed on the Transfer Window Podcast that Saka is has caught the eye of Liverpool.

And Arteta believes it's only a good sign that some of his Arsenal troops are wanted.

The Gunners manager said: “I think that’s great news when you have a lot of talk and people willing for you players, it’s a really good sign.

“They should be proud because that means they are doing extremely good work.”

“I don’t like to put these labels. I am really happy with Bukayo, and with what he’s doing, with how he’s developed and the importance he has on the team.

"Most importantly with the impact that he’s able to make in each game. This is something that we want to keep improving in each game because he has the capacity to do it.”

Contract talks

Saka's contract at the Emirates Stadium expires in the summer of 2024, meaning Arsenal have their asset fairly well protected.

Arteta insists that there's still plenty of time to discuss fresh terms.

He added: “There is time to talk about this business.”

Will Bukayo Saka join Liverpool?

Jurgen Klopp will already be on the lookout for potential wingers who could join Liverpool in the future.

Although Mo Salah and Sadio Mane are still both indispensable players, their respective contracts run out in 2023. Neither have yet to commit their future.

The pair are aged 29 and the Reds will be aware that long-term successors for each are required.

However, it could come down to Arsenal’s valuation of Saka if Liverpool were to step up their interest.

The Reds are known for not paying over the odds of what they believe a player is worth.

According to Transfermrkt, Saka is valued at £58.5 million.