"There would be riots if Arsenal let him join Liverpool" - Former Red on reported target

Former Liverpool winger Steve McManaman has given his thoughts on the club's reported interest in Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka.

The 49-year-old said that he would love to see the Reds sign the Englishman. However, McManaman further added that he does not see the Gunners selling Saka to a direct rival.

The 20-year-old's contract expires in June 2024. Transfermarkt value Saka at €65 million.

As quoted by The Sport Review, McManaman told horseracing.net the following: “Bukayo Saka would be an amazing signing for Liverpool but I can’t possibly see Arsenal selling a key player to a domestic rival.

“I can’t envision that move happening. He’s one of Arsenal’s star men. I’ve seen a lot of Arsenal this season and Buyako excites me more than any other player in their side.

“Would I love Liverpool to get him? Definitely. He brings you something different. He attacks down the right, takes people on and gets to the byline. A bit different to Mo Salah, who likes to cut inside, Saka is more of a winger but a winger that likes to chip in with goals and Liverpool do need a winger like him.

“However, there’s no way on earth that Arsenal will let him go unless it’s a case of his contract running out. He’s such a young lad but still a leading figure in that Arsenal side and he’s improving every single year, so there would be riots if Arsenal let him join Liverpool.”

Anfield Watch Verdict

We completely agree with McManaman's take. Saka is someone that we would love to see at Anfield, as he is a quality player.

The 20-year-old winger can score, create and dribble at the highest level. Saka has also been averaging a WhoScored player rating of 6.97 across the 2021-22 Premier League campaign.

However, we do believe that it is highly unlikely that Arsenal would even consider selling the forward to Liverpool.

The Gunners would not want to aid a direct rival. At the end of the day, Arsenal are trying to get back to the top of English football.

Arsenal would be taking a backwards step by selling Saka. But, only time will tell if Liverpool are to make a move for the winger.