Bukayo Saka is set to become Arsenal’s highest-paid player with a new long-term contract that will quadruple his current salary. The 21-year-old has been a standout performer for the Gunners this season, contributing 12 goals and 10 assists in the Premier League. His performances have earned him the nickname “Starboy” and reportedly attracted interest from Liverpool, who were said to be monitoring his contract situation. However, Saka’s new deal will put an end to any speculation about his future.
If reports are accurate, Saka’s new contract will take him to around £300,000-a-week, making him one of the highest earners in the Premier League. Currently, the top earner is Kevin De Bruyne on £400,000-a-week, followed by Erling Haaland and David de Gea on £375,000-a-week. Mohamed Salah and Jadon Sancho both earn £350,000-a-week, while Raphael Varane is just behind on £340,000-a-week. Raheem Sterling is Chelsea’s best-paid player on £325,000-a-week, while Jack Grealish and Casemiro both earn £300,000-a-week.
Saka’s new deal will also see him overtake Gabriel Jesus as Arsenal’s highest-paid player less than a year after the Brazilian signed a lucrative £265,000-a-week contract. Captain Martin Odegaard is currently on around £115,000-a-week, while Gabriel Martinelli earns £90,000-a-week. Aaron Ramsdale reportedly earns £62,000-a-week, while centre-backs Gabriel and William Saliba take home £50,000-a-week and £40,000-a-week respectively.
Arsenal fans will be relieved that Saka’s new contract will keep him at the club for the foreseeable future. Manager Mikel Arteta has been full of praise for the winger this season, describing him as a “ruthless winner” who needs to take his game to the next level. Saka’s performances have been instrumental in Arsenal’s title charge this season, with the Gunners currently eight points clear of Manchester City.
If Saka’s reported salary is accurate, it could lead to some of his teammates knocking on Arteta’s door for their own pay rise. However, it is clear that Saka’s performances this season have been deserving of a bumper new deal, and Arsenal will be hoping that he can continue to deliver on the pitch for years to come.