Granit Xhaka is poised to leave Arsenal at the end of the season and Bayer Leverkusen are in advanced talks to sign the midfielder for €15m (£13m).
The 30-year-old’s contract expires in June 2024 and there are no negotiations over an extension, with a parting of ways planned seven years after Xhaka joined from another German club, Borussia Mönchengladbach.
The Switzerland international is close to an agreement over personal terms with Leverkusen on a four-year deal.
Xhaka has played a major role in Arsenal’s title push, starting 34 of their 36 Premier League games and coming on as a substitute in one.
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The midfielder’s contribution amounted to “probably the best season he has had at the club”, Mikel Arteta said last Friday, but manager and player accept this is a good moment for the relationship to end. Xhaka has faced fierce criticism from Arsenal fans at times during his stay but he intends to depart on a positive note.