Hello ...... Beginner here. I'm looking for suggestions for the best way to prepare a Leather Ice Skate for an autograph?

I have a pair of older ice skates that I want Bobby Hull to autograph but they need a good cleaning first. If saddle soap is used will the autograph adhere or is there a better preparation method?

Can anyone suggest the best way to clean and prepare the leather so the autograph will last and what signing pen would be the best (silver, gold sharpie)?

Thanks

John A