Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka 'ready to quit' the club

Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka is ready to quit the club this summer, according to the latest reports.

Cast your minds back to 2019 and Xhaka's Arsenal career looked to be over after he was booed off the field by fans against Crystal Palace.

The 30-year-old has since experienced an almighty resurgence, playing a major role in Mikel Arteta's title push.

But despite becoming a hugely popular figure at the Emirates, Xhaka may take up a new challenge at the end of the season.

Arteta is keen to add two midfielders to his ranks this summer, with Declan Rice emerging as the Spaniard's priority target.

But the 24-year-old's arrival could have a significant impact on Xhaka's game time, and in turn pave the way for his exit.

Xhaka to leave Arsenal?

Bayer Leverkusen have surfaced as a potential destination for Xhaka, with manager Xabi Alonso 'desperate' to sign him, according to The Mirror.

The Switzerland international has less than a year left on his current deal and is yet to sign a new contract. Meanwhile, The Sun claim Arteta will not stand in his way if he does want to leave the Emirates.

Indeed, the Gunners boss may look to use Xhaka as a bargaining tool to help lure Moussa Diaby to Arsenal.

Arteta is thought to want to strengthen his options out wide this summer, paying particular attention to his left-hand flank to help ease the pressure on Bukayo Saka.

The 23-year-old French winger has emerged as a key target, having scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists in all competitions this season.

Meanwhile, Arteta's close friendship with Alonso could play a part in negotiations, as the Bundesliga side consider a 'package deal' involving Diaby.

However, with Arsenal already short of options in midfield, Xhaka's departure could leave them even more exposed.

Topics: Arsenal, Granit Xhaka, Football, Mikel Arteta, Bayer Leverkusen, Transfers

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno