Shock league leaders Arsenal trigger clause in Saka's contract that will extend his stay until 2024

SURPRISE leaders of the English Premier League Arsenal have triggered the extension clause of Nigerian-born England international Bukayo Saka's contract in a bid to fend off potential suitors.

Saka, 21, was born in Ealing, London, to Nigerian parents, Adenike and Yomi Saka, who emigrated to the UK as economic migrants. Given a thorough Nigerian orientation as a kid, Saka attended Edward Betham Church of England Primary School and then Greenford High School, where he gained four A*s and three As in his GCSEs.

Having previously played for the Watford youth team, Saka joined Arsenal's Hale End academy at the age of seven. On November 29 2018, Saka made his first-team debut for Arsenal in their UEFA Europa League match against Vorskla Poltava and on January 1 2019, he made his debut in the Premier League in a 4 - 1 win over Fulham, coming on for Alex Iwobi in the 83rd minute.

Over the last two seasons, Saka has been a revelation for both club and country, establishing himself as one of the most important players for both Arsenal and England.  His good form has not gone unnoticed, so in a bid to keep potential predators at bay. Saka is entering the final six months of his current deal, so Arsenal have activated the extension that will keep him in the club until 2024.

Also, the Gunners have initiated talks with the player over a long-term agreement. It is believed Saka is in line for a big pay rise to around £200,000-a-week, as he is currently one of Arsenal's best players.

This season, Arsenal have been the surprise leaders of the English Premier League, establishing an eight point lead at the top of the table. Despite their lead, very few pundits believe the Gunners can win the title, with many predicting that their bubble sill soon burst but the side has continued to defy the critics.