Arsenal Transfers: Bayer Leverkusen Sign Switzerland Midfielder Granit Xhaka

Bayer Leverkusen has signed the 30-year-old Xhaka with the contract running through June 2028, the club announced on Thursday.

“In Granit we were able to win an absolute top professional for ourselves,” Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes said. “His footballing quality is known everywhere. But there are few players who can lead so well thanks to an outstanding mentality and personality.”

The midfielder signed for the Arsenal in May 2016 from Borussia Monchengladbach and all-in-all made 297 appearances in all competitions, scoring 23 goals and assisting 29 times.?

His seven years at the club saw him lift two FA Cups, and also the FA Community Shield twice.

Gunners manager Mikel Arteta said on Xhaka's departure, “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 team mates 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.”