Arsenal could reportedly be forced to sell highly-rated starlet Bukayo Saka in order to raise the necessary funds for summer transfer business.
The Gunners' European hopes for the 2020-21 campaign are hanging by a thread after their dismal 3-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Premier League, and that result leaves Mikel Arteta's side nine points off the pace in the hunt for a Champions League spot.
A successful venture in the Europa League would see the Gunners return to the pinnacle of European football, but should Arsenal fail to qualify for a spot in continental competition, their transfer plans could be severely impacted.
As a result, The Times suggests that Arteta could ultimately be forced to part ways with Saka, who would command a much higher transfer fee than players who already appear to be heading for the exit door, such as Sead Kolasinac, Lucas Torreira and Ainsley Maitland-Niles.
Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke is said to be reluctant to fund new arrivals given the club's poor fortunes on the pitch, but Arteta would only consider selling Saka as a last resort if they cannot garner enough money from offloading out-of-favour players.
Saka has been a shining light in an otherwise mediocre season for Arsenal, with the 19-year-old registering six goals and six assists in all competitions for the Gunners.
Ben Knapton
