Mikel Arteta hails ‘fantastic’ Granit Xhaka after £21.5m Arsenal exit is confirmed

Granit Xhaka has completed his move to Bayer Leverkusen.

The Switzerland international travelled to Germany on Thursday morning to put the finishing touches to his £21.5m switch to the Bundesliga outfit.

“We are saying goodbye to a fantastic player and person loved by all of us,” Mikel Arteta said. “It has been an incredible journey together for him and he has given absolutely everything for this club. 

“The influence Granit has had on his team mates on the pitch and colleagues at the club, will tell you just how popular he is.

“We cannot thank Granit enough for his service and contribution to this club over the years. We wish Granit and his family all the best in the next step of their lives.”

Xhaka made 297 appearances during his seven year stay at Arsenal, scoring 23 goals and providing 29 assists. 

He was a key player during Arteta’s time at the club, but Arsenal have sanctioned his exit due to the arrival of Kai Havertz and the imminent capture of Declan Rice.

Speaking about his move, Xhaka said: “I know the league inside out. Bayer 04 is a club with an impressive history and ambitious targets. 

“Above all, I see it as a club with a great future. Everybody here is ambitious and wants to achieve something – I’m very much looking forward to the next few years.”