Arsenal star tipped to challenge for the Ballon d'Or as Man Utd comparison made

Bukayo Saka is capable of competing for the Ballon d'Or within the next two years, according to former England international Paul Ince.

Saka, 21, has cemented his status as one of the best young talents in world football this season, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists in all competitions.

His performances have helped Arsenal to the summit of the Premier League, where they are five points clear of closest rivals Manchester City.

Saka also impressed for England at the 2022 World Cup, scoring three times for the Three Lions in Qatar.

Ince backs Saka for the Ballon d'Or

Former Manchester United and Liverpool midfielder Ince, who is now in charge of Reading, believes Saka has the potential to be crowned the greatest player in world football.

"I always say to myself, if Antony is worth £80m+ then imagine if Ryan Giggs was playing - he'd be worth £200million," Ince told Premier League Odds.

"Antony is a very good player but the way Bukayo Saka is playing right now is frightening.

"The penalty miss at the Euros seems to have really spurred him on. Saka is going to be one of the best players in the world.

"Saka is the go-to guy for Arsenal and he will only get better. Without a doubt he will be challenging for Ballon d'Or titles. He can do that in the next two years.

"If the Ballon d'Or was awarded now, he would be in the running because he's been stupendous and long may it continue."

Odegaard also tipped for the Ballon d'Or

Saka is not the only Arsenal player being tipped to challenge for the Ballon d’Or.

Former Gunners star Lauren claims Martin Odegaard could also be in contention in the coming years.

He told FairBettingSites: "Odegaard was not a cheap player, but he has been great and still has more to show.

"If he continues to improve, he can be a £100m or £200m player in the future.

"I can see Odegaard compete for the top individual awards such as the Ballon d'Or, the performances of the team are helping him to grow.

"In the future, if Arsenal win the Premier League, then perform well in the Champions League next season, I believe Odegaard will be among the best in the world."