Earlier on Thursday, we covered a report in Italy about AS Roma’s interest in Granit Xhaka.
Sky Italia reporter Gianluca Di Marzio explained the Switzerland international had become a specific target for José Mourinho, who wants the Arsenal man to bolster his midfield.
The report stated that the Gunners weren’t against a sale of the player, but that a fee of around €25m would be needed.
Well, it appears AS Roma, according to Calciomercato, have made their first move, with the website reporting the Serie A side have put forward €15m + bonuses.
The amount of extras isn’t revealed, but with Arsenal wanting at least €25m up front, the Italians are currently around €10m short.
It’s believed the only way the distance between the two sides can be reduced is if ‘Xhaka puts pressure on the English club’ to secure a move away from the Emirates.
Contracted to Arsenal until 2023, Xhaka has had his ups and downs with the London club, but returned to some continuity under Mikel Arteta, making 45 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring one goal and assisting his teammates twice.
