Xhaka is attracting attention from Arsenal and Liverpool
Arsenal are confident of sealing a deal for Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Granit Xhaka this summer, who is valued at £34 million.
Arsene Wenger is hoping to bolster his midfield options by signing Xhaka – rated as one of Europe’s brightest midfield talents – while the German outfit are resigned to losing the 23-year-old this summer.
The Gunners have reportedly opened preliminary talks with the Bundesliga outfit, to discuss terms of a deal.
Liverpool are also interested in a move for the Switzerland international, although Arsenal are confident of landing a deal for the midfielder this summer.
However, Wenger’s side are said to value that player at £30 million, and will not go beyond that figure, but the north London club believe they could strike a deal with the Germans for less than the £34 million asking price.
Heading for Europe
One bonus for Monchengladbach is that they are on course for qualifying for Europe next season, currently fifth in the Bundesliga, with the Europa League in sight. So, the pressure to sell one of their star men has been eased slightly.
However, with Arsenal stumbling over meeting the asking price, Liverpool are keen to act quickly to meet the club’s valuation and bring Xhaka to Anfield.
Both Arsenal and Liverpool could ‘potentially’ offer Champions League football next season – if the Reds win the Europa League and win a spot in Europe’s elite club competition – meaning the two Premier League rivals could be left to fight it out for Xhaka’s signature.
Arsenal have been monitoring the midfielder – who has made over 100 Bundesliga appearances – for the past 12 months.
