GRANIT XHAKA’S Arsenal contract renewal has been confirmed by owner Stan Kroenke in the club’s matchday programme.
It has been speculated that the 28-year-old has put pen to paper on a new deal at the Emirates, but the Gunners are yet to officially announce the extension.
But American billionaire Kroenke has leaked the news in Arsenal’s programme for Sunday’s London derby clash against Chelsea.
Xhaka was heavily linked with a switch to join Roma earlier in the summer.
But after the Serie A side failed to come up with a suitable transfer fee, the Swiss midfielder has decided to remain in North London.
Owner Stan Kroenke and son Josh spoke of Arsenal’s transfer business in the programme, with Football.London obtaining their message.
They said: “We know there is much work ahead to get back to where we need to be but are confident about what can be achieved by this great club and our people.
“We are building a squad, rich in young talent, much of it developed through our wonderful academy.
“It is clear looking across Europe that we are dealing with a difficult transfer market due to the impacts of the pandemic but at the time of writing, are delighted to have signed Nuno Tavares, [Albert] Sambi Lokonga and Ben White.
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“We have also renewed the deals of Kieran Tierney and Emile Smith Rowe, both on a long-term basis.
“These are all young players that we are convinced can develop further and have a bright future with us.
“They are supported by a strong group of more experienced players including Granit Xhaka, who has signed an extended contract.
“This is an important step in terms of maintaining balance and stability in the squad.
“In the meantime, the transfer negotiating team has been working hard behind the scenes to improve the squad further.”
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has stated the club never wanted to part ways with Xhaka.
He declared: “We never wanted to let him go. We explained to him the role he would have in the team, how important he was and how far he has come in the last two seasons.
“And the fact that he has come through some difficult moments and how he has reacted and achieved and the respect he has gained, not only on the field, but around the club and in that dressing room.
“We believe that he was a really important figure and we need players like that for the development of the young players we have.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
