Arsenal: Blockbuster Transfer Alert - Xhaka Departure Confirmed, Rice and Timber Set for Medicals!

Bayer Leverkusen have agreed a deal to sign Granit Xhaka from Arsenal.

The fee that will take the midfielder from north London to the Bundesliga is worth €25m.

Xhaka, who has played 297 matches over a span of seven seasons for Arsenal, was in the final year of his contract at the Emirates Stadium. He will turn 31 in September, and an official announcement of his departure is anticipated within the next 24 hours.

Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber will undergo their Arsenal medicals within the next 72 hours following successful agreements with West Ham United and Ajax, as confirmed by reliable sources. The players have also reached a preliminary agreement on personal terms, paving the way for their potential arrival at Arsenal early next week.

It would take Arsenal's spending in this window beyond £200m - further proof of the backing manager Mikel Arteta is receiving from Edu and the board.

Explained: How Arsenal can afford big-money summer signings

According to football finance expert Kieran Maguire, Arsenal's apparent willingness to spend more is a direct result of Mikel Arteta's efforts. Maguire told We News that Arsenal is currently in a strong financial position due to effectively managing their wages.

Arsenal's current wages are £150m to £170m lower than Liverpool, Manchester United, and Manchester City, as compared to 2018. This significant difference in wages has provided Arsenal with the freedom to make new player purchases without excessive concerns.

Furthermore, Arsenal benefits from extra revenue generated by participating in Champions League matches, premium ticket prices, and a minimum prize money of £50m.

With all factors considered, they likely still have some flexibility in terms of their spending during this current transfer period.

When questioned about a possible change in strategy at Arsenal, he responded by confirming a restructuring. Arsenal experienced a period of decline during which they failed to qualify for the Champions League.

They successfully removed high-earning players like Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from their payroll, allowing them to enter the market with a competitive edge and the ability to match other clubs. Arsenal, previously known as the Bank of England club, has always maintained strong financial management. This shift in spending is a reflection of Mikel Arteta's achievement in securing Champions League qualification once again, which significantly boosts their revenue.

Follow the summer transfer window with Sky Sports

Stay informed about all the latest transfer news and rumors in our dedicated Transfer Centre blog on We' digital platforms. You can also find updates on arrivals, departures, and analysis on We News.