Charlton manager Lee Bowyer says that the club are "trying their hardest" to get midfielder Joe Aribo to sign a new contract, but claimed that reports linking the 22 year old with Arsenal "could just be his agent trying to attract interest."

Aribo's contract at The Valley expires at the end of the current season, and reports earlier this week claimed that Arsenal were keen to take advantage of the midfielder's availability on a free transfer in the summer.

Speaking in his pre match press conference ahead of the visit of League One bottom side Bradford City to The Valley on Saturday, Bowyer confirmed the club were working on a new contract for Aribo, and added that speculation linking the midfielder with The Gunners showed the club had "done a good job with him".

The Charlton boss added that he is wants to get the player to sign a deal for the good of his own career as well of that of the club, and that he does not believe speculation linking him with Arsenal will affect the 22 year old.

Aribo has made 86 appearances and scored 12 goals in all competitions for Charlton since joining from non-league Staines Town in September 2015.

The verdict

Aribo's performances this season mean that Charlton are understandably keen to tie him down to the club, though you feel it would be difficult for the 22 year old to say no should Arsenal come knocking. Bowyer looks to be taking an optimistic view of things, as you feel this story could have some way to go yet.