Granit Xhaka is reportedly ready to walk away from contract talks as speculation surrounding his future picks momentum.
According to 90min, Granit Xhaka could cool contract renewal talks with Arsenal ahead of the summer. There’s growing speculation the Swiss midfielder will leave the Gunners in the summer, but the reasons behind it remain murky at best.
Granit Xhaka has had a wonderful season, probably his best in an Arsenal shirt since signing for the club in 2017. The 30-year-old midfielder has 14 goal contributions this season, helping the Gunners to a title challenge.
Xhaka has vastly benefitted from Mikel Arteta’s system, with the Spaniard using the 30-year-old midfielder in a more advanced role this season. The Swiss star has found balance, and the new role has allowed him to use his overall qualities well.
Owing to his efforts, Arsenal have already qualified for next season’s Champions League and may still have a shot at the Premier League title. Considering his huge reputation within the squad, there were reports from February that the Gunners were keen to open contract renewal talks.
Xhaka was also enthused about extending his stay with Arsenal, with his current contract ending in 2024 with a possible club option of an extension. However, many reports from the past week have insisted the 30-year-old midfielder could leave the club.
The one from 90min suggests Xhaka could cool off contract extension talks with the club and look to move on at the end of the season. There have been links with Bayer Leverkusen and former side Borussia Monchengladbach, but nothing seems concrete.
The other speculated reason behind his abrupt decision might point towards Arsenal’s transfer targets for the summer. Those include reported high-profile moves for central midfielders Moises Caicedo and Declan Rice, which may threaten Xhaka’s place in the team.
Yet, there is no indication from the club or Arteta regarding this, nor has Xhaka’s demeanour indicated his discontent at the club. Hence, these stories must be taken with a pinch of salt, as the 30-year-old midfielder could stay put and even sign a new deal.
Moreover, Xhaka remains a key cog in Arteta’s system and vital for the style of football Arsenal play. Additionally, he seems content in north London and his family well settled here. This news story will get plenty of traction in the coming weeks, although it’s likely a rumour.
