Granit Xhaka could be receptive to an offer from AS Roma in the summer despite signing a new deal with Arsenal last year.
According to Football London, there is still a chance for Granit Xhaka to join AS Roma in the summer, with the midfielder open to the opportunity. The Italian side were keen on the Swiss midfielder last summer, only for him to stay put and sign a new deal.
However, the links between Granit Xhaka and AS Roma refuse to go away. The midfielder is again linked with the Italian side, as Jose Mourinho remains keen on the Swiss international. Reports insist a move could yet happen in the summer, with the player supposedly ready to make the switch.
Roma manager Mourinho feels his squad lacks players with a fighting mentality, having previously suggested as much following their loss to Juventus in January. This was the Portuguese tactician’s idea behind wanting to sign Xhaka last summer.
Roma and Arsenal were in advanced negotiations, although the Serie A side could not meet the Gunners’ valuation for Xhaka. The midfielder was open to joining the Italians but was content at the Emirates and eventually signed a new deal with the north London club.
But Arsenal could embark on another summer spending spree later this year as part of their squad rebuild. Among those expected to arrive are forwards, a new right-back and a central midfielder, as the Gunners could let Xhaka leave after the season.
The north London side were looking at potential replacements last summer and could reignite their interest in Ruben Neves, one of their primary targets at the time The Portuguese star is expected to leave Wolves after this season, and Arsenal could be a great destination, especially if they qualify for the Champions League.
If such a player is brought in early in the next window, Arsenal could be willing to listen to offers for Xhaka, although they might increase their asking price considering the new contract the midfielder signed.
Xhaka is also open to the possibility of joining up with Mourinho and Roma in the summer. It remains to be seen how far the negotiations between the two clubs go this time, although the Gunners might only sell after they bring in a reliable replacement for their seasoned campaigner.
