Manchester City are prioritising signing a central midfielder during the summer over Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The reigning Premier League champions have been linked with a move for the highly-rated 20-year-old in recent weeks, yet it seems as though he is not at the top of Pep Guardiola’s wish list.

What is the latest news involving Saka?

Last month, The Sun claimed that Arsenal ‘face a battle’ to keep hold of Saka amid interest from City and the player’s desire to play in the Champions League.

The England international only has two years remaining on his current contract, and although manager Mikel Arteta is believed to be eager for his prized asset to sign a new deal, his future remains up in the air.

And the Daily Mail have now provided an update on Saka’s situation, revealing the Cityzens have ‘stepped up their interest’ in the versatile attacker.

It’s claimed that FA Cup holders Liverpool have also earmarked Saka as a ‘future target’ and although neither side are expected to make a move this summer, they have made their admiration known at a key time in contract negotiations.

Initial discussion over fresh terms are believed to have taken place, and tying the academy graduate down to a new and improved contract will surely be a priority for Arsenal over the coming months.

What has Jones said about Saka?

Jones has been told ‘not to get too excited’ about the speculation surrounding Saka’s potential switch to the Etihad Stadium with other positions taking precedence for Guardiola and co.

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In an interview, he said to GiveMeSport: “I’ve been told not to get too excited about this one just yet.

“The main focus is going to be a central midfielder, and if a wide forward is to come on the agenda, (Raheem) Sterling or (Riyad) Mahrez will have to go - maybe even on top of (Gabriel) Jesus.”

Would Saka be a good signing?

Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville labelled Saka “electric” back in July 2021 after he became the youngest-ever player to start for England in the semi-finals or later of a major tournament.

And the creative talent, who is valued at £102m by CIES, built on his success with the Three Lions with his club form, registering 12 goals and seven assists in 43 appearances last term.

Whether Saka remains loyal to his boyhood club or chases silverware remains to be seen, but he will surely blossom into an outstanding player wherever he plies his trade.