GREEN LIGHT: Guardiola explains why Arteta must sign Gundogan

Arteta pursues project

In an interview with the official Arsenal website, Mikel Arteta described Bukayo Saka’s contract extension as another ‘important part’ of a project he’s building. The Spaniard said: “It’s great for the club that Bukayo has extended his contract.

“Retaining our best young talents is key to our continued progress and Bukayo represents such an important part of our squad now and for the future. As well as being a fantastic talent, Bukayo is a special person, he’s loved by us all and he is a credit to himself and his family for the hard work and commitment they have all made to get to this level today.

“Together with our supporters, we’re so looking forward to enjoying Bukayo’s continued development with us in the years to come.”

Kudus closer to switch

Arsenal have been handed a huge boost towards the signing of Mohammed Kudus. The 22-year-old maestro has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League this summer following his eye-catching performances for Ajax.

As quoted by Dutch publication De Telegraaf, Kudus’ agent, Jennifer Mendelewitsch, confirmed that now is the right time for the Ghanaian to leave Ajax. She said: “I think it is best for both Ajax and Mohammed that he makes a transfer now.

“Now is the right time. He has ignored a proposal to extend his contract until the summer of 2026. What I can say is that after the World Cup and this season there is a lot of interest in Kudus.”

Guardiola verdict on Gundogan

Pep Guardiola has already explained why Ilkay Gundogan will be the perfect signing for Arsenal with Granit Xhaka expected to leave. Last month, the Manchester City boss said: “Ilkay is such an important player. Humanity, leading with silence – and yet when he talks everybody listens. He is a football player defined perfectly.

“An attacking midfielder with a sense of goal and assists. He is so intelligent in the moment and always in the right position. He can also play as a holding midfielder. Ilkay is an exceptional player in all senses.

“He is so intelligent, Gundo. So clever. So competitive. Under pressure… he handles it without a problem. He’s one of the best players I ever trained in my career. The whole package. He’s top. Top class.”