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Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Granit Xhaka could leave Arsenal this summer, with talks over his future likely to take place at the end of the season…
THE LOWDOWN: ROMA CALLING
The Switzerland international has enjoyed one of his best seasons with Arsenal, becoming a crucial figure in the middle of the park for Mikel Arteta’s men as they maintain their strong push for the top-four in the Premier League.
Of course, it has been a remarkable turnaround over the last 12 months for the Gunners. But also, for Xhaka. Heading into Euro 2020, it appeared inevitable that the 29-year-old would be leaving.
In fact, reports claimed that a move to Roma could be imminent. Ultimately, however, Xhaka ended up staying put. And Arsenal have certainly benefitted from keeping him.
Now, there are suggestions he could still depart north London this summer.
THE LATEST: HE WILL TALK ABOUT IT
Speaking to Caught Offside, Romano has now suggested that the Giallorossi remain keen on Xhaka. And talks about the idea of the midfielder leaving Arsenal will be held in the summer.
He said: “We could see midfielders leaving Arsenal as well: Granit Xhaka has always been on Jose Mourinho’s list for his AS Roma, but has not received communications from Arsenal so far. He will talk about it with the club at end of the current season, but no distractions during the UCL spot race.”
THE VERDICT: EXPERIENCE NEEDED
Given the amount of praise the young players in Mikel Arteta’s squad have received lately, and rightly so, the Swiss centurion has largely flown under the radar.
It would surprise some if Xhaka did leave Arsenal in the summer. He has been superb at times this season. And, while he does not wear the armband, he is seen as a real leader at the club.
Ian Wright recently labelled one of his recent displays as “inspirational”.
Arteta has entrusted him implicitly this season, handing him 24 starts in the Premier League, and the midfielder has not let him down, with his performances in the recent wins against Chelsea, Manchester United and West Ham shining a light on his influence and leadership, which has been questioned many times in recent years.
It is evidently clear that if the Gunners are to proceed on to the next level next season, the former Borussia Mochengladbach man’s experience will certainly be needed in the dressing room.
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