Despite seemingly being on the verge of a move to Roma, Granit Xhaka could yet remain at Arsenal and the Gunners are preparing to offer him a contract extension.
According to The Athletic, Roma are yet to meet the Premier League club’s asking price for Xhaka, despite him being high on new coach Jose Mourinho’s wishlist, and the faltering negotiations have prompted Arsenal to consider offering him a new deal.
Whilst Arsenal had been keen to cash in the Switzerland captain, it is believed that they are warming to the idea of retaining him as they invest heavily in other areas of the team.
Midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga has arrived from Anderlecht, and England international Ben White is also on the verge of a switch to the Emirates Stadium from Brighton, whilst they retain an interest in Sassuolo star Manuel Locatelli.
With further business expected, Arsenal are now ready to extend Xhaka’s contract rather than offload him and begin a more costly search for a replacement.
Meanwhile, La Gazzetta dello Sport suggest that the North London club were holding out for €23 million, yet Roma were unwilling to go above €15m plus bonuses.
