Arsenal are set to trigger a contract extension clause in Granit Xhaka’s deal, before pursuing fresh terms with the midfielder.

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 22: Granit Xhaka of Arsenal celebrates after the team's victory during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 22, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND: Granit Xhaka of Arsenal celebrates after the team’s victory during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 22, 2023. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Granit Xhaka’s impact on Arsenal’s success

TalkSPORT report that Arsenal are set to activate an option in Granit Xhaka’s contract to 2024, extending it to 2025.

The Gunners are then keen to sign the Swiss international up to a new deal, but the extension option will secure his future in the short term.

Xhaka is now 30 years old, but he’s playing at the top of his game at the moment. He’s made 36 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal as they’ve made the last-16 of the Europa League and topped the Premier League for most of the campaign.

Though his goals and assists have dried up lately, a total of nine goal contributions is still solid compared to previous years.

Mikel Arteta approves Xhaka contract extension

Reports in February revealed that Arsenal and Xhaka were already in talks over a new contract.

There’s seemingly a willingness from both sides to agree on a new deal, and Mikel Arteta has given his seal of approval to an extension for the player.

Arsenal's Ukrainian defender Oleksandr Zinchenko (L) celebrates with Arsenal's Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka (R) after scoring their second goal during the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Arsenal at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England on February 18, 2023. (Photo by GEOFF CADDICK/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Ukrainian defender Oleksandr Zinchenko (L) celebrates with Arsenal’s Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka (R) after scoring their second goal during the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Arsenal at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England on February 18, 2023. (Photo by GEOFF CADDICK/AFP via Getty Images)

Balancing youth and experience: Arsenal’s squad strategy

With Arsenal extending Mohamed Elneny’s contract as well, the Gunners look to be tying down a few of the more experienced heads in the squad as their youthful rebuild continues.

There’s often an argument that you need both elements to make a successful team in the long term, with the experienced players picking up the slack when the up-and-coming stars go through inevitable dips in form.

Arsenal appear to be chasing new midfield signings in the summer, with Declan Rice the priority and an apparent continuing interest in Brighton’s Moises Caicedo.

Yet, Xhaka continues to play a key role for Arsenal, seven seasons after signing.

You wouldn’t rule out an extension and a significant role for the 30-year-old again next year.