Bukayo Saka: Arsenal was the club in the hearts of my family

Nigeria-born Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has talked up his affection for the Gunners, amid speculation regarding a future transfer elsewhere.

Despite only turning 20 years of age in September, Saka has already made 80 appearances in the Premier League, with a further 34 outings coming in other competitions.

Having impressed in the Gunners first team, the versatile winger is naturally being linked with a move to another club with Manchester City and Liverpool said to be monitoring the situation.

However, in an interview with Sky Sports, the England international has opened up on the reasons why he first linked up with the North London outfit.

Saka said: “I think Arsenal was always the one I wanted to go to. It seemed like they had a lot of faith in their youth and there was a clear pathway when you could see the players coming up from Hale End to London Colney and my dad also really believed in the project and he loved Arsene Wenger. I think Arsenal was the club in the hearts of my family, so we chose them.”

Commenting on Arsenal’s progression under Mikel Arteta, the youngster added: “I think I’ve taken a step forward, but I think, also, the team has taken a step forward. Football’s a team sport and as long as everyone is doing well, I think it makes things easier individually.

“I’d say we’re on good form and it really helps me – the team is so fluid, we’re building a lot of chemistry.”

Saka has a contract at the Emirates Stadium until the end of 2023-24.