Arsenal confirm they have agreed a new ‘long-term’ deal for midfielder Granit Xhaka. The 25-year-old recently completed his second season at the Emirates and featured in all 38 of the Gunners’ Premier League games. Xhaka had a difficult start to life at Arsenal in 2016 but had a much-improved campaign in 2017/18 which has earned himself a new deal.
New head coach Unai Emery said of the deep-lying playmaker: “I’m delighted that Granit has extended his contract with us. He’s an important member of the squad and is still young so will be able to develop even more. I hope he has a successful World Cup with Switzerland and comes back fit and ready for the new season.”
Signed from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2016, the Swiss international has made 94 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal, contributing 18 goals. He’s a good passer of the ball and highly creative, although he has been guilty of relinquishing possession cheaply at times. Nevertheless, Arsenal are clearly keen to retain his services for the long-term and believe he’s key to future success.
Xhaka agreeing a new deal is all the more important due to the uncertain futures of Jack Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey, both of whom could yet leave Arsenal as neither have signed a contract extension. Wilshere will be a free transfer in the coming weeks, while Ramsey has 12 months to run on his deal. He could be sold if he fails to agree a deal this summer, however.