Granit Xhaka has almost confirmed his intention to leave Arsenal this summer, which indicates that he is very keen on a possible move to AS Roma.
Rome’s interest in Xhaka has been close enough to general knowledge since Jose Mourinho took the helm. The Portuguese boss is a well-known fan of the midfielder and was one of the few prominent people in the UK who defended him after his relationship with the Gunners broke down in 2019.
The infamous incident where Xhaka ironically applauded Arsenal fans when he was singled out from the pitch against Crystal Palace is still ranked by many, and although he has recovered to play a prominent role under Mikel Arteta, he is still a divisive figure.
So it came as a bit of a surprise when it was first reported in May that Roma were anxious and that Xhaka wanted to move to Serie A.
The deal has moved closer since then, and with Switzerland based in Rome for Euro 2020, Xhaka would never avoid questions from the Italian media for long. He spoke to the press ahead of their conflict with France on Monday and was asked almost immediately about a potential move to the Italian capital.
But those who expected a template rejection for an answer were left shocked when he seemed to confirm his intention to leave Arsenal and hinted that he would be happy to live in Rome.
Xhaka on Roma move: “Arsenal know what I want to do … it’s very beautiful here [in Rome]. ”Pic.twitter.com/cP5XGLTYEO
– Chris Wheatley (@ChrisWheatley_) June 27, 2021
He said at his press conference: “Arsenal know what I want to do … it is very beautiful here [in Rome]. ”
Of course, his comment came with humor behind it, and it’s no big surprise to hear that there’s a deal going on. Fabrizio Romano recently reported that the negotiations are in their “final stages”, but it still seems shocking to hear it directly from the horse’s mouth.
In any case, it seems unlikely that the deal will be announced before Switzerland is looking for Euro 2020. So Arsenal fans who want to keep him may have to hope for something special against the world champions in Bucharest.
