Arsenal have opened talks with Bukayo Saka over a new and improved contract at the Emirates Stadium.

The 20-year-old is enjoying his best season yet at the Gunners, with his strike in the 1-0 win over Aston Villa being his ninth Premier League goal of the season.

Saka’s growing importance to Mikel Arteta’s side is reflected in their determination to reward the star with a new contract.

The Athletic have reported that an initial discussion has taken place over an improved deal.

Saka, who signed his last contract in 2020, is understood to have one more year on his contract left after this season.

Arsenal do have the option though to extend his current contract by a further year which is something they would be expected to activate.

As Saka’s stock continues to rise, the Gunners are looking to sort out his future and sign him to a longer deal as ‘quickly as possible’ to fend off any teams that might be interested.

The financial package involved in the offer and whether Arteta’s men qualify for the Champions League are likely to be important factors in the process.

Saka came through the club’s academy and made his first Premier League appearance in January 2019 as a late substitute in a 4-1 victory over Fulham.

He has already gone on to make 121 appearances for the club scoring 21 goals.

Saka is also now a regular to be called-up for England, making 14 appearances and scoring four goals.

His impressive season with the Gunners come off his heartbreak at Euro 2020, when his decisive penalty was saved in the final against Italy.

The goal against Aston Villa strengthened Arsenal’s grip of fourth spot – now holding a three point advantage over Tottenham with a game-in-hand.