Arsenal ready to let go of Granit Xhaka on one condition

According to recent reports from  The Mirror, Arsenal are prepared to let midfielder Granit Xhaka leave the club once they complete a £105m deal for West Ham United’s Declan Rice. Bayer Leverkusen is said to have a deal lined up for Xhaka, offering him a four-year contract. However, there is a growing sentiment at Arsenal that if they (Bayer) consider Xhaka a long-term signing, they should pay around £20m for his transfer instead of settling for a bargain deal.

Xhaka’s potential departure from Arsenal comes after an impressive season for the Swiss international. He scored five goals and provided seven assists in the Premier League, showcasing his importance to the team’s attacking play. Despite his contributions, Arsenal fell short in their bid to win the 2022/23 Premier League title.

The Gunners were engaged in a fierce title race with Manchester City throughout the season. However, their hopes were dashed when they suffered a defeat against Nottingham Forest in their 37th game week. This loss ultimately cost them the trophy as Manchester City secured the Premier League title with 89 points, while Arsenal finished as runners-up with 84 points.

It was a disappointing end to what had been an impressive campaign for Arsenal. They had led the league table for ten months and were considered strong contenders for the title. However, their inability to maintain consistency towards the end of the season allowed Manchester City to overtake them and claim top spot.

With Xhaka potentially leaving and Rice being targeted as his replacement, Arsenal are looking to strengthen their midfield options. Rice has emerged as one of England’s brightest talents in recent years and has been instrumental in West Ham’s success.

England’s midfielder Declan Rice gives a press conference at Al Wakrah SC Stadium in Al Wakrah, south of Doha, on December 1, 2022, during the Qatar 2022 World Cup football tournament. (Photo by Nicolas TUCAT / AFP) (Photo by NICOLAS TUCAT/AFP via Getty Images)

However, if Arsenal view Rice as a long-term signing who can contribute significantly to their squad, it is only fair that they pay an appropriate fee for his services. The reported £105m deal would make him one of the most expensive players in Premier League history, highlighting his value and potential impact.

As negotiations continue, Arsenal will need to carefully consider their options. Xhaka’s departure would leave a void in midfield, and Rice would need to quickly adapt to his new surroundings. The Gunners will hope that the potential signing of Rice can help propel them back into title contention and provide the necessary stability in midfield.

Ultimately, Arsenal’s decision regarding Xhaka’s future and the pursuit of Rice will have significant implications for their upcoming season. As they aim to reclaim the Premier League title, making the right moves in the transfer market will be crucial.