It’s about astonishing numbers: Xhaka deal is on the straight

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Granit Xhaka (30) goes to Bayer Leverkusen. That has actually been clear since the end of May. Arsenal’s search for a midfield alternative and tense transfer negotiations meant there were no new developments for over a month. The deal now goes through this week.

“The Athletic” reports that Arsenal and Leverkusen have agreed a fee – and Xhaka is a lot more expensive than initially reported and assumed. Converted, Arsenal would have to collect just over 25 million francs for Xhaka. That is more than ten million more than the transfer fee of 15 million traded in May. Not bad for a 30-year-old player entering his last year at Arsenal.

Leverkusen takes a financial risk for Xhaka

There has been an agreement between Xhaka and Leverkusen since May. The wish of Xhaka’s wife Leonita, who retreats to her native Rhineland, also plays an important role. But Xhaka is also interested in working with coach Xabi Alonso. A gifted midfield strategist throughout his active career, the Spaniard is said to have big plans for the Swiss national team captain. He wants to build the ambitious team around leader Xhaka. This is probably one of the reasons why Leverkusen is willing to take the financial risk.

According to ‘Transfermarkt’, only two players in the history of the Bundesliga have switched to a German club after their 30th birthday for more money. Sadio Mané (32 million to Bayern Munich) and Mats Hummels (30.5 million to Borussia Dortmund) were more expensive than the Swiss. Leverkusen has only spent twice more on a player: in 2019 Kerem Demirbay (30) came for 32 million and in 2020 Patrik Schick (27) for 26.5 million.

Xhaka should also have a long-term contract until 2027 with a next prospect in the coaching staff. Also important factors in the decision to leave Arsenal after seven eventful years.

Official announcement of the transfer is expected later this week. When Arsenal completed the record-breaking England transfer of Declan Rice for £105 million from West Ham United. (dti)

Source : Blick