Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke has confirmed that Granit Xhaka has signed a new contract with the Gunners, which puts an end to all rumors of a possible distance from the Emirates.
The 28-year-old had appeared to be walking towards the front door this summer, after agreeing on personal terms for a move to AS Roma. However, the two clubs could not agree on a fee, which caused the deal to break down.
Xhaka during the defeat against Brentford / Shaun Botterill / Getty Images
Xhaka’s future was left in the air by this failed transfer, with the Gunners ready to earn the Swiss international for the right price. But the club has made a huge U-turn by offering him an extension of the contract, and owner Kroenke has announced that the deal has been signed.
It had previously been reported that Xhaka had agreed a new three-year contract with the club, which means he will stay in north London until the summer of 2024.
Kroenke wrote in the club’s match day program ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Chelsea and discussed the Gunners’ transfer policy during the summer, as well as their desire to tie current stars to longer contracts, according to The Express.
“We know there is a lot of work ahead of us to get back to where we need to be, but we are confident in what can be achieved with this fantastic club and our people,” he wrote.
“We are building a group, rich in young talent, much of it developed through our wonderful academy. It is clear to look across Europe that we are dealing with a difficult transfer market due to the effects of the pandemic but at the time of writing, are happy to have signed Nuno Tavares, Sambi Lokonga and Ben White.
“We have also renewed the business between Kieran Tierney and Emile Smith Rowe, both in the long run. These are all young players that we are confident can be further developed and have a bright future with us.”
Kroenke then confirmed that along with the successful extensions of young talents Tierney and Smith Rowe, Xhaka has also signed a new contract due to the experience and “stability” he gives to the squad.
Xhaka is a big part of Arsenal’s future plans / Chloe Knott – Danehouse / Getty Images
“They are supported by a strong group of more experienced players, including Granit Xhaka, who have signed an extended contract. This is an important step in maintaining balance and stability in the squad.
“Meanwhile, the transfer negotiating team has worked hard behind the scenes to further improve the squad.”
Xhaka was the captain of Arsenal in their opening day match with newly promoted Brentford, where they suffered the humiliation of being completely eliminated in a 2-0 loss to the bees.
