Featured Image Credit: Alamy & Instagram @granitxhaka
Joe Adams
Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka could leave the club this summer, following the latest reports.
Xhaka's Arsenal career looked to be on the ropes back in 2019. But he has more than redeemed himself under Mikel Arteta, forming a key part of the Gunners' title bid this season.
The 30-year-old midfielder produced a goal-saving tackle against Newcastle on the weekend, and has chipped in with a handful of goals at the other end of the pitch this term, too.
However, recent reports have cast doubt over his future at the Emirates, with Xhaka's contract due to expire next year.
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Arteta is keen to add two midfielders to his ranks this summer in preparation for a busy Champions League schedule next season.
Declan Rice has emerged as Arsenal's priority target, but his arrival could have a significant impact on Xhaka's game time, leading the Switzerland international to reconsider his options.
While it seems Xhaka's personal life may also have a sway in his decision, following claims that his wife no longer wants to live in London.
Xhaka's wife, who he met during his playing days at Borussia Mönchengladbach, has been wanting to return to the Rhineland for a long time, according to German news outlet Kicker.
As a result, Xhaka could return to the Bundesliga after seven years in the Premier League, with Bayer Leverkusen reportedly monitoring his situation.
Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso is 'desperate' to sign him, claim The Mirror. While The Sun state that Arteta will not stand in his way if he does want to leave Arsenal.
Indeed, Xhaka's potential departure could play into Arteta's hands, with the Spaniard eager to sign Leverkusen winger Moussa Diaby.
The German side are allegedly open to a player-plus-cash deal, with Xhaka expected to cost in the region of £13 million this summer.