Granit Xhaka is closing in on a move to Bayer Leverkusen after Arsenal failed to offer the Switzerland international a new contract to remain at the club.
The midfielder has enjoyed his best ever campaign at the Emirates, with Mikel Arteta saying only last week that Xhaka was in the best form of his Arsenal career.
‘I’m extremely happy with Granit, I think he is having an incredible season, probably the best season he has had at the club and we are really happy to have him,’ said Arteta.
However, with 12 months to remain on his Arsenal contract, Xhaka is seeking more clarity over his future.
Arsenal had been happy to run that deal down, safe in the knowledge that it includes a 12-month extension clause that effectively ties Xhaka to the club until 2025.
But Xhaka is aware of the club’s pursuit of Declan Rice and fears he could be pushed down the pecking order.
The midfielder joined Arsenal from Borussia Monchengladbach for £34m in 2016 and he’s keen on a return to Germany, as it’s closer to his homeland.
And it’s Arsenal’s refusal to offer Xhaka a new contract that has seen the Swiss seek a move away from the club.
The 30-year-old wants greater certainty heading into the final stages of his career and Leverkusen will offer him an initial three-year deal.
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