‘I bet Arsenal could not believe their luck’: Collymore reacts to reports concerning 28-year-old star

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Stan Collymore has told The Sunday People (13/6; page 60) that Arsenal probably cannot believe their luck as they edge closer to netting an eight-figure fee for Granit Xhaka from Roma in the transfer window.

It looks to be a pivotal window for Mikel Arteta. The Spaniard is still looking to prove that he is the right man to take the club forward.

Much of what is to come from Arsenal before the window shuts will depend on how much they make from player sales.

And one of several seemingly set to move on is Xhaka. According to Sky Sports, Roma have entered advanced talks to land the 28-year-old.

That report noted that the Giallorossi were working to agree a fee. Arsenal want around £21.5 million for the Swiss.

It does appear that there is a desire from all sides to reach an agreement. And Collymore has suggested that the Gunners must be stunned that they may soon receive a considerable fee for Xhaka.

“I bet Arsenal could not believe their luck that someone would be prepared to pay £15 million for workmanlike Xhaka, a walking liability for most of his stay at the Emirates,” he told the Sunday People (13/6; page 60).

“But Mourinho is a sucker for a grafter and Swiss international Xhaka will help him turn Roma into a joyless machine.”

Xhaka transfer fee may divide Arsenal fans

It looks to be best for all parties if Xhaka secures a move to Italy. But there may be one bone of contention amongst some of the Arsenal fans.

Some will agree with Collymore that anything over £15 million is amazing business.

However, others may feel slightly differently – simply because of how much Arsenal paid.

According to Sky, the Gunners paid around £30 million. So they are set to make a big loss on a player who has done well at times.

Unfortunately, it is hard to see Arsenal receiving anything like what they paid, so the priority surely has to be getting him off the books.