Arsenal news: Bayer Leverkusen chief coy on Granit…

Arsenal news: Bayer Leverkusen chief coy on Granit Xhaka as Barcelona wonderkid linked

Here is your morning Arsenal digest for Thursday, May 11.

Leverkusen chief avoids Xhaka discussion

Bayer Leverkusen chief Simon Rolfes has stayed coy on rumours linking Granit Xhaka to the Bundesliga club. Reports in Germany have linked the long-serving Arsenal midfielder with a move to Leverkusen.

The claims centre around Xhaka’s wife, who is understood to desire a move back to Germany - where the 30-year-old last played for Borussia Monchengladbach. According to a report by Kicker, Arsenal sporting director Edu has even halved his asking price for the midfielder.

However, Rolfes, who fulfils the same role at Leverkusen, has refused to get drawn into the speculation. Xhaka currently has 14 months left on his contract but the Gunners can extend by a further year.

“There are always rumours," Rolfes told German media. “We are looking around the market, but I will not comment on that. We want to fundamentally improve our team. There will be changes, we want to create new impetus.”

Barcelona wonderkid linked with Arsenal move

Arsenal are considering a move for Barcelona prospect Ilias Akhomach, according to Spanish outlet Sport. The 19-year-old is expected to leave the Catalan giants once his contract expires in the coming weeks.

Previous raids on Barcelona’s youth academy have proven successful, with Cesc Fabregas and Hector Bellerin making a name for themselves in north London. Just three first-team appearances has frustrated Akhomach and he reportedly views his future elsewhere.

Leeds United were mooted as a possible shock destination but that suggestion has simmered since director of football Victor Orta left the club. Primarily a winger, Akhomach is capable of playing anywhere across the frontline.

That means competition for places will be just as tough, with Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Reiss Nelson competing for those wide slots. AC Milan and Sevilla are also claimed to be interested in the wonderkid.

Martin Zubimendi makes stance clear

Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has dismissed links suggesting he could complete a transfer to Arsenal this summer.

“I have never planned to leave Real Sociedad — I always say that," Zubimendi told Marca.

"I love life here, at home, I’m so happy here. The value of this club are same as mine so I feel very good, I always said that I’m happy.”