Arsenal's future depends on Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka, but the pair of academy graduates have been told they must sign new contracts or the Gunners will be forced to sell.
Arsenal legend Paul Merson has shockingly told the club that if Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe refuse to sign new contracts, they will be sold in the summer transfer window.
Both Gunners academy graduates have established themselves as two of Mikel Arteta's most trusted players, but Merson is skeptical that the pair of boyhood Arsenal fans will stay.
While Saka is only committed for the next two years, the claim comes after Smith Rowe signed a long-term contract.
"They are first-rate, and they will be crucial to Arsenal finishing in the top four this season. But I believe Arsenal should lock them down right now "Merson stated this in his Daily Star column.
"They should be discussing five-year contracts right now. Get them signed, and if they refuse to sign, sell them in the summer.
"You should give these kids a raise. This is a big one. They are Arsenal's future, and you must secure their services.
"Get them restrained right away. Don't make them wait. Sometimes it's just wait, wait, wait with Arsenal. I'm afraid they'll leave."
Merson, on the other hand, can find solace in Smith Rowe's remarks when he agreed to his new contract last July, "If Arsenal wants me for the rest of my career, I will stay here indefinitely.
"It's always difficult [to stay at one club for your entire career], but I'd love to be here forever."
Meanwhile, Saka agreed to new terms in 2020 and stated: "My home is in London. Arsenal is my favorite team." I'm overjoyed to finally be able to announce the extension of my contract. I enjoy playing for this club and am excited about what the future holds. The hard work continues so that I can keep living my dream."
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