Arsenal completes Xhaka signing; initial fee reportedly £25M

Arsenal is getting some transfer business done early this summer, putting an end to the mounting speculation by confirming the signing of midfielder Granit Xhaka from German side Borussia Monchengladbach.

Though terms of the deal were not disclosed, reports suggest the Gunners will pay an initial £25-million transfer fee for the Swiss international.

Related: 3 ways Arsenal's midfield could line up with Xhaka's arrival

"Granit Xhaka is an exciting young player, already with good Champions League and Bundesliga experience," Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said of the signing. "We have been watching him for a long time now and he is a player who will add quality to our squad. We wish Granit a good Euro 2016 with Switzerland and look forward to welcoming him to Arsenal ahead of next season."

Xhaka, 23, rose to prominence with FC Basel before making the Bundesliga switch four years ago.

(Courtesy: Arsenal)

Capped 40 times by Switzerland, the steely defensive midfielder will add yet another impressive option to a side that already boasts the likes of Mohamed Elneny, Santi Cazorla, Aaron Ramsey, and Jack Wilshere. Though, given the club's injury history and the fact Xhaka offers superior defensive coverage to that aforementioned quartet, the newly minted Gunner will certainly see significant minutes this season.

If anything, he'll compete with Francis Coquelin for the role as Wenger's preferred option in holding midfield. His arrival also coincides with the impending departures of both Mikel Arteta, who is expected to retire, and Mathieu Flamini, whose contract is mercifully set to expire.

“I’m very proud to be joining Arsenal,” said Xhaka, who has long made his desire to play in the Premier League known. “I cannot wait to move to London, represent this special club and play in the Premier League. I will give everything to help Arsenal win trophies and make the fans happy.”