Granit Xhaka is reportedly set to join Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season, marking the end of his Arsenal journey.

  • Granit Xhaka has reportedly agreed on personal terms for a transfer to Bayer Leverkusen, marking the end of his journey with Arsenal.
  • The Swiss international has had an excellent season with Arsenal, but a potential move to Leverkusen seems to be on the horizon.
  • While Xhaka’s potential exit looms, Arsenal’s interest in Leverkusen’s Moussa Diaby and Edmond Tapsoba hints at a vibrant transfer window.
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 02: Granit Xhaka of Arsenal reacts during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Chelsea FC at Emirates Stadium on May 02, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 02: Granit Xhaka of Arsenal reacts during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Chelsea FC at Emirates Stadium on May 02, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

When it comes to football, change is the only constant. This phrase holds particularly true for Arsenal, who are set to see their midfield maestro, Granit Xhaka, depart for Bayer Leverkusen. In a significant development, Fabrizio Romano reports that Xhaka’s move to Leverkusen is near completion, with personal terms almost agreed over a four-year deal.

The Swiss international, whose tenure with the Gunners has been marked by moments of brilliance and controversy, is reportedly set to leave at the end of the season, ending an era at the Emirates Stadium. His potential departure comes amidst reports of his wife’s desire to return to Germany, making the move a convenient solution for all parties involved.

Arsenal gear up for monumental summer transfer window

Xhaka has been a significant figure in Mikel Arteta’s setup, with this season arguably being his best in an Arsenal shirt. His tally of 14 direct goal contributions speaks volumes of his influence on the pitch.

Xhaka’s five league goals are the most he’s ever scored in a Premier League campaign. His seven assists are the joint-most he’s ever provided. His two Europa League goals make this the first season he’s scored more than once for Arsenal in Europe.

Arsenal's Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka celebrates after scoring their third goal during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium in London on March 19, 2023.(Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka celebrates after scoring their third goal during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium in London on March 19, 2023.(Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Yet, the midfielder’s future at the club became uncertain, with Arsenal reportedly looking to refresh their squad with younger, dynamic talent.

As Xhaka’s time at Arsenal draws to a close, Arteta’s interest in Bayer Leverkusen’s stars Moussa Diaby and Edmond Tapsoba offers an intriguing twist to the transfer narrative. Both Tapsoba, a composed centre-back, and Diaby, a dazzling attacker, have been standout performers for Leverkusen this season. The Gunners are reportedly ready to splash out up to £100 million to secure these key talents, which seems unlikely.

Xhaka’s move to Leverkusen could also pave the way for these transfers, with Leverkusen’s interest in the Swiss international potentially softening the German club’s stance on their key assets. With a reported fee of €15m (£13m) for Xhaka’s transfer, this summer could see a significant player exchange between the two clubs.

Earlier this week, The Daily Mail reported that initial contact has taken place between Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen over Granit Xhaka, but said that no final agreement was in place.

Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg reported that Leverkusen were indeed pushing to sign Xhaka, and the situation is looking good.

Though the midfielder remains focused on Arsenal for the time being, Plettenberg claims he wants to take on another challenge this summer. Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso is keen to add the Swiss international to his squad.

As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on these potential moves and their impact on Arsenal’s future. While Xhaka’s potential departure marks the end of an era, the arrival of new talent could signal the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Gunners.