Mikel Arteta says keeping prized assets such as Bukayo Saka is vital for Arsenal in their quest for trophies.
Saka is reported to have agreed to a new bumper contract to keep him with the Premier League leaders until 2028.
The England winger’s current deal runs until June 2024, so the Gunners have been eager to ensure he remains at the club for the long term.
Saka has scored nine goals and provided eight assists for Arsenal in the Premier League as they strive to win the title for the first time since 2014.
Gabriel Martinelli recently signed a new deal, while Arsenal are also reportedly working on fresh terms for William Saliba and Aaron Ramsdale.
Manager Arteta stressed that it is imperative for Arsenal to show their ambition by retaining key players.
He said ahead of Saturday’s trip to Leicester City: “That’s what we have to do, that’s our responsibility. To keep our best players, our best people.
“Those that have the same aims and same purposes as the club.”
Saka, also excellent for England at the World Cup last year, has come in for some rough treatment but Arteta believes he will learn to cope with tackles flying in.
Asked if he felt Saka was in danger of picking up a serious injury, the Spaniard replied: “Hopefully not. We have train that. When to take certain balls, when to run, when to jump.”
He added: “I’m sure refs want to protect players in every game. There is a lot of focus on Bukayo, but we need to focus on what we can do as a team. Of course, also the referees have a job to do.
“We cannot control what the opponents are going to do, or the referee in a split second. We need to help him become a better player.”
