As Jose Mourinho plans changes to his squad, AS Roma are ready to rekindle their interest in €45 million Arsenal star Granit Xhaka.
According to Fichajes, AS Roma are keen on Granit Xhaka and could revisit their interest from two years ago. The Swiss captain is about to leave Arsenal in the summer, with the North Londoners likely to demand a fee over €20 million for the midfielder.
It was an emotional moment for Arsenal fans to see Granit Xhaka play what was described as his last game for the club against Wolves. It is widely reported the €45 million star would leave the Gunners in the summer to try out a new challenge elsewhere.
Xhaka leaves the club on a high note after a tremendous season under his belt. He might have been disappointed at not winning the Premier League. His potential departure allows Mikel Arteta room to execute his plans and bring in replacements of a younger profile.
Bayer Leverkusen were the clear favourites since the news about his exit started gathering pace. The Bundesliga side are stepping up their efforts, but Arsenal might only sanction an exit after they sign a replacement. Declan Rice is their primary midfield target, with Moises Caicedo also on their list.
Back to Xhaka, and there’s also interest from Bayern Munich in the midfielder. Despite the entry of the Bavarians, Leverkusen remains favourites to bring the Swiss star to the Bundesliga. Serie A giants AS Roma have re-entered the chase for the €45 million Arsenal star.
Jose Mourinho wanted Xhaka two years ago and went close to signing the Arsenal midfielder, with the Portuguese manager’s future still threading on uncertainty with a possible move to Saudi Arabia on the cards.
However, he might stay put if the club proposes a solid plan for the future. Moreover, Mourinho is emotionally attached to the club and might consider remaining here for now. He would certainly show an interest in signing Xhaka, but like two years ago, his price tag could prove problematic.
Also Read: Granit Xhaka: The divisive Arsenal legend of the Emirates era
Arsenal reportedly want at least €20 million or half of the €45 million they paid Borussia Monchengladbach many years ago. Arsenal will not sell their experienced star on the cheap, but there are doubts whether Roma will have a successful chase.
