Arsenal midfielder wanted by German side

Arsenal ensured that they remain just a point behind Premier League leaders Manchester City by beating Newcastle United 2-0 on Sunday. 

Mikel Arteta’s side have recently surrendered top spot in the table to the reigning champions, but they kept the pressure up with an impressive display at St. James’ Park.

Martin Odegaard put the Gunners ahead in the first half, before a Fabian Schar own goal doubled their advantage.

Regardless of whether or not they do win the title this season, Arteta will undoubtedly be pleased with his side’s campaign, not least because they have already qualified for the Champions League for the first time in seven years.

The Gunners could look to bolster their squad ahead of a European campaign next season, but it also appears that they may face a battle to keep hold of one of their current stars.

As per The Mirror, German side Bayer Leverkusen are hoping to sign midfielder Granit Xhaka this summer.

Xhaka could be on his way back to Germany this summer

The report claims that the Bundesliga outfit are desperate to sign Xhaka, 30, when the transfer window reopens.

The midfielder’s current contract is set to expire next summer, although it does also include the option to extend by a further 12 months.

Since joining Arsenal from Borussia Monchengladbach back in 2016, Xhaka has made 294 appearances across all competitions.

Xhaka has been a regular for Arteta’s side this season but the club are reportedly hoping to add at least two midfielders to their squad this summer, which could limit his game time next term.

With that in mind, the player could choose to join Leverkusen, who also showed significant interest in signing him last year.

The German side are now managed by former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, and the Spaniard is said to be keen on signing the Switzerland international.