Staff Reporter.
Bayer Leverkusen have signed Switzerland midfielder Granit Xhaka from Arsenal on a five-year deal, the Bundesliga club said on Thursday.
Financial details were not disclosed but British media reported the German club paid 25 million euros ($27.19 million)for the 30-year old.
Xhaka joins Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen after spending seven seasons with Arsenal in which he made 297 appearances, with 23 goals and 29 assists, and helped the club win two FA Cups.
“I know the league inside out and I watched it when I was in London. Bayer 04 is a club with an impressive history and ambitious targets,” said Xhaka.
“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.”
Arteta, meanwhile, saluted his contribution to the club, saying: “We are saying goodbye to a fantastic player and person loved by all of us.
“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.”
Edu, Arsenal’s sporting director, added: “Granit has been a big part of our club for a long time. He has given us great commitment and quality over the years, playing such an important role in our progression and success.
“He leaves us with our huge respect and thanks. We wish Granit all the best for the future.”
Xhaka has signed a five-year contract with Bayer Leverkusen and is looking forward to a return to the Bundesliga having spent four seasons with Borussia Monchengladbach earlier in his career.