Breaking: Arsenal confirm Granit Xhaka exit amid £21.5m Bayer Leverkusen transfer

Granit Xhaka has left Arsenal to sign for Bayer Leverkusen in the summer transfer window after seven years at the club

Xhaka joined the club for £35million in May 2016 from Borussia Monchengladbach and has endured a tumultuous seven years in north London, to say the least. Prior to the final day of the 2022/23 Premier League season, Xhaka had made 296 appearances in total with 21 goals and 29 assists obtained in that time.

In October 2019, the 30-year-old looked as though his Arsenal career was over after his reaction to being subbed off against Crystal Palace. With the game level, Xhaka's number was brought up on the board to which ironic cheers emanated from the stands which in turn saw Xhaka respond by cupping his hand up to his ear before storming off down the tunnel.

However, Xhaka's turnaround at Emirates Stadium, particularly under Mikel Arteta, has been impressive. A challenging few campaigns followed after the incident but this season he has been immense in an advanced midfield role.

Seven goals and seven assists have come from Xhaka this season making it comfortably his best 12-month period in an Arsenal shirt. The Gunners look set to invest heavily in their midfield which makes a departure from Xhaka seem very confusing.

Confirming his exit, Arsenal posted a heartfelt message to the midfielder, celebrating his seven years at the club with a 90-second tribute video. On his exit, Sporting Director Edu said: “Granit has been a big part of our club for a long time. He has given us great commitment and quality over the years, playing such an important role in our progression and success. He leaves us with our huge respect and thanks. We wish Granit all the best for the future.”

Mikel Arteta added: “We are saying goodbye to a fantastic player and person loved by all of us. It has been an incredible journey together for him and he has given absolutely everything for this club.

"The influence Granit has had on his teammates on the pitch and colleagues at the club, will tell you just how popular he is.

“We cannot thank Granit enough for his service and contribution to this club over the years. We wish Granit and his family all the best in the next step of their lives.”