Granit Xhaka set for summer Arsenal exit with Bayer Leverkusen keen on signing him

Granit Xhaka wants to seek a new challenge this summer and is expected to leave Arsenal.

Although Xhaka, 30, is under contract with the Gunners till 2024, manager Mikel Arteta is anticipated to approve his transfer if a good offer in the neighborhood of £15 million is made.

He is in advanced talks to join Bayer Leverkusen in an expected £13m move to the Bundesliga.

The Arsenal midfielder has seen his game improve as the North London team chases a trophy. Still, he is reportedly interested in taking on a fresh challenge outside the Emirates.

The midfielder has made over 290 appearances for Arsenal since moving there from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2016.

Also Read: Youri Tielemans confirmed to leave Leicester as free agent

Xhaka, who was booed off the pitch by fans in 2019, has repeatedly revived his Arsenal career under Arteta, becoming a crucial cog in the Spaniard’s midfield this year.

“There was one guy, Mikel Arteta,” Xhaka said. “I will always support him; it doesn’t matter what happens. I am 100 percent sure I would no longer be in the club without him.

“He knows that I have an excellent and honest relationship with him. It doesn’t matter what happens on the pitch; I will never be against or say something against him.

“He deserves my respect, but the respect from my family also. I was gone. I did not want to wear the shirt anymore. He gave me the feeling to do it again.”

Xhaka has contributed to 14 goals this season and is still eager to return to the Bundesliga. Arsenal have also been linked with Declan Rice who could be his possible replacement.