NO RELEASE CLAUSE MEANS SAKA GETS SHORTER DEAL

ARSENAL resisted requests to insert a release clause in Bukayo saka’s new contract and instead agreed to give the england forward a shorter deal than many had expected, with the 21-yearold signing on for four more years this week.

The compromise suits both parties, with Arsenal protecting saka’s transfer value and the player keeping his options open should he wish to move in two years’ time, when the club will either cash in or offer him another new deal. Unlike some Premier league clubs, Arsenal are reluctant to follow the european model of giving players set release clauses and prefer to trust in the negotiating skills of their transfer team, lead by sporting director edu. saka’s contract has trebled his basic wages to about £200,000 a week, but he could earn as much as £290,000 if performance targets are met.