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The Gunners boss also spoke about William Saliba’s contract situation.
Amid rumours that Granit Xhaka is close to a Bayer Leverkusen move, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has, for the first time, responded to the rumours.
Leverkusen manager Xavi Alonso is said to be a big fan of the 30-year-old midfielder, and he would want to sign him.
Should Xhaka remain at Arsenal beyond the summer, he would enter the final 12 months of his contract, with the Gunners holding an option to extend that by a year.
"The clarity is there," Arteta said while speaking about Xhaka. "He is a player that has played, I think, every minute since I have been the manager. He is an incredibly respected figure at the club.
"He has a great story around him with what he has achieved at the club in going through very tough moments, and he is a key and very important part of us. Whatever happens is something we will discuss, certainly not now."
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10:34 - 18.05.2023
FOOTBALL Victor Wanyama's monthly salary slashed by Ksh14.7 million in new deal
The midfielder signed a new two-year deal in December 2022.
The Swiss international has scored seven goals and has seven assists in 45 appearances in all competitions this term.
The Arsenal boss also spoke about William Saliba’s future. The Frenchman has not been available in recent games since he got injured during the Europa League match against Sporting Lisbon.
"We are trying," Arteta responded when asked whether they are willing to risk Saliba’s contract going into the final 12 months.
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11:30 - 19.05.2023
TRANSFERS Details of Saka’s new deal revealed
The forward has been in talks with the club, and it is said the new deal was all agreed on in February.
"We are having conversations, and we are trying to maintain the talent we have at the club, as I said before. But things take time. You have to agree to it.
"There are different parties involved. I think everybody’s intention is the same, and hopefully, we’ll find the right solution."
Next season, Arsenal will compete in the Champions League, and Saliba is expected to be a key figure in the defense.
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11:44 - 19.05.2023
FOOTBALL Arteta reveals Martinelli’s injury is ‘nasty’
The Brazilian and Zinchenko are not going to be involved in the season as they are sidelined by injuries.
Should Granit Xhaka leave, it means Arsenal must sign an equally experienced midfielder, and so far, they have been massively linked with Declan Rice of West Ham United.
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