Report: Granit Xhaka new contract only until 2024; Arsenal have option for further year

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Arsenal have agreed a new contract with Granit Xhaka today, with the Swiss star putting pen to paper on fresh terms to remain in North London.

It marks a stark u-turn from both the player and the club. Just a few weeks ago, Xhaka seemed destined for Roma. Personal terms had been agreed, and all that was left was a fee to be agreed upon.

However, the Italian side could not meet what Arsenal were demanding and now, Xhaka is set to stay with the Gunners.

Details

While reports have suggested this is a brand new contract for Xhaka and will run until 2025, The Athletic have suggested that may not be the case.

Instead, The Athletic state that Arsenal have simply taken up an option to extend Xhaka’s £100k-a-week deal. That means that the contract isn’t a brand new negotiation. Further, the deal will run until 2024 – not 2025 – although there is an option within the contract to add a further 12 months.

It’s claimed that Arsenal were the ones to extend the deal. Xhaka, meanwhile, didn’t complain, with The Athletic stating he remains ‘loyal’ to Mikel Arteta.

TBR’s View: Risky business but Arsenal doing what they need to do

Ultimately, Arsenal couldn’t sell Xhaka and so it made sense for them to exercise this clause. If they try and sell him again next summer, then they are in no weaker a position.

Xhaka could also play a key role for the Gunners. Yes, he was poor against Brentford. But with Thomas Partey out, and Albert Lokonga a new face, Xhaka’s experience will be needed.

So, while on the surface this appears a risky move, it might not be the worst decision the club have taken all summer.