Xhaka’s move from Arsenal in serious doubt

Granit Xhaka’s proposed move from Arsenal to Roma appears to be in doubt.

Arsenal have been expected to offload both Hector Bellerin and Xhaka in order to fund the signing of Wolves star Ruben Neves.

Midfielder Neves has been lined up for a move to the Emirates Stadium and the Gunners appear to be closing in on a deal.


Many would regard him as a significant upgrade on Xhaka, whose performances have attracted criticism.

However, reports in Italy suggest that negotiations have stalled and that the deal to take the Switzerland international to Rome is now in the balance.

Arsenal are said to be demanding £17m, with Roma apparently unwilling to pay more than £12.8m.

Meanwhile, reports in Bellerin’s native Spain suggest he could be on his way back there from north London.

Villarreal’s former Arsenal boss Unai Emery is reported to be keen to be reunited with Bellerin, while Sevilla are also said to be interested in the right-back.

Bellerin has been with Arsenal for a decade and has made 183 Premier League appearances for the club.

Xhaka has been at the Emirates for five years, making 161 league appearances since arriving from Borussia Mönchengladbach.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is determined to revamp the squad following a disappointing season.

The arrival of Neves, who has been outstanding for Wolves, would certainly seem like a step in the right direction ahead of the new campaign.