Arsenal are reportedly set to complete a deal for Granit Xhaka with the midfielder saying that a decision on his future will be made before the European Championships.
Xhaka appeared to be saying his farewell’s after Borussia Monchengladbach’s last game of the Bundesliga season.
Reports emanating from Germany and England have said that Xhaka is nearing a move to Arsenal for around £30m.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will be looking to bolster his midfield options following the departures of Tomas Rosicky, Mathieu Flamini and the retirement of skipper Mikel Arteta.
Xhaka says goodbye to Gladbach coach. Various reports indicate he's on his way to Arsenal. #afc pic.twitter.com/QeUeWhoQJF
— Sam (@samuelJayC) May 14, 2016
Xhaka said: “The decision will definitely be before the Euros. I’m the wrong person to be asked [about a possible move], you might need to check that with [sporting director] Max Eberl
“[If I left the club], I’ll return to Borussia-Park [one day], but as I said, nothing is clear yet.”
Xhaka has made 36 appearances for Gladbach this season, and has three goals and two assists to his name.
Arsene Wenger said that the club would try to add two or three names this summer as he looks to maintain a title challenge next season.
“We want to keep the squad stable over the summer while strengthening where possible,” he said. “You want the group to be stimulated and to believe that we have improved the quality.
“Maybe bring in three players for example – that’s the right level for me.”
Xhaka deal nearing completion. #mcfc also 'very interested' but understand personal terms all but done between the player & #afc
— AFCAMDEN (@AFCAMDEN) May 16, 2016
He also stressed that Stan Kroenke would back him with any transfer activity that he undertakes, and said money would not be an issue.
He said: “[Majority shareholder] Stan Kroenke is completely behind myself and the board investing as much money as we want.
“It has to be in respect of a balanced budget, we have resources but the problem is finding players. Everybody has money in England and they’re all after good players.”
Update
Today it has been widely reported that Xhaka has landed in London for a medical ahead of a proposed moved believed to cost in the region of £30m.
David Ornstein who is usually the mouthpiece for the club when it comes to transfer activities has all but confirmed the imminent signing of Xhaka.
Arsenal close to signing Gladbach mdf Granit Xhaka. Agreement reached on £30m deal, in London to finalise terms, medical this weekend #AFC
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) May 20, 2016
A deal Granit Xhaka may kick start a summer of busy transfer activity for the Gunners and fans will be hoping Arsene Wenger brings in a striker also.