Claims linking Manchester City with the future signing of Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka have been dismissed by the Premier League champions after it was reported on Monday night that they had stepped up their interest in the player, with only two years left to run on his current Gunners contract.
Last night, it was reported by Adrian Kajumba in the Daily Mail that City are closely monitoring developments concerning Saka's future, with Liverpool also said to have earmarked the England international as a future target as he enters a decisive stage within his current Arsenal deal.
Kajumba claimed that Pep Guardiola's side have begun showing an increased interest in the player – however, it was highlighted that any move this summer would be unlikely given the club's priority to strengthen in central midfield as well as the likely cost of Saka being vast this summer.
Arsenal's lack of Champions League football was cited as a factor that could play into suitors' hands moving forward, with the 20-year-old yet to play in the competition – potentially leading him to leave his future unresolved beyond this window.
However, this morning, Simon Bajkowski of the Manchester Evening News, among others, have outlined City's stance on the speculation, with Bajkowski reporting that the club have distanced itself from reports linking them to Saka, with the player not in their plans this transfer window or windows to follow.
City are expected to pursue Kalvin Phillips as Fernandinho's replacement in midfield – although Leeds reportedly remain hopeful of tying the 26-year-old down to a new deal – and a move left-back Marc Cucurella from Brighton has also been mooted.
Meanwhile, Gabriel Jesus continues to be linked with a move away with a contract extension seemingly very unlikely, and a host of clubs interested in the Brazilian's services, with Arsenal, thought to be leading the race. Oleksandr Zinchenko has also been linked to Mikel Arteta's side, with the Ukrainian reportedly seeking regular minutes.
Written by: @NA1907_
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