Granit Xhaka faces Arsenal dilemma as Mikel Arteta's close friend revives transfer interest
Bayer Leverkusen are keen on signing Granit Xhaka from Arsenal this summer. The German club was interested in Xhaka last summer, and their pursuit of the midfielder has continued. Xabi Alonso, the former Liverpool midfielder and a close friend of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, is now in charge of Bayer Leverkusen. The Swiss captain, who has one year left on his Arsenal contract with a further 12-month option, must choose between returning to German football or staying at Arsenal. The Gunners are likely to make two significant midfield signings this summer and have made West Ham's Declan Rice their top target. They also retain a strong interest in Brighton's Moises Caicedo, and Chelsea's N'Golo Kante is another option. Arteta plans to strengthen his squad as they prepare for a return to the Champions League and to build on this season's Premier League title push.
Xhaka had a public fallout with Arsenal supporters in 2019 but won back their affections with his dedication and performances, making him one of the most popular players with the club's fanbase. Despite Xhaka's popularity, he faces stiff competition for a place in the Arsenal midfield next season, with the team set to make significant signings in that area. The Gunners' interest in Declan Rice and other midfielders, coupled with their push for a return to the Champions League, means that Arteta is looking to build a midfield that can compete at the highest level.
Meanwhile, Arsenal midfielder Jorginho put in a composed and class performance against Newcastle, according to Gary Neville. The former Manchester United defender likened Jorginho's display to a vintage performance from his former teammate Paul Scholes. The Italian midfielder was instrumental in Arsenal's hard-fought 2-0 victory over Newcastle, and his performance epitomized the Gunners' composed and streetwise display. Jorginho's selection was critical in helping Arsenal keep their Premier League title hopes alive, and Arteta will likely look to the midfielder to continue his fine form in the coming matches.
Overall, Arsenal faces a significant dilemma regarding the future of Xhaka. While the Swiss midfielder is a popular figure at the club, Arteta is looking to build a midfield that can compete at the highest level. Xhaka will have to decide whether he wants to stay and fight for a place in the team or move to Leverkusen to secure regular playing time. As for Arteta, he will continue to make signings that will help Arsenal's push for a return to the Champions League and compete for the Premier League title next season.
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