Mikel Arteta casts huge doubt over Granit Xhaka’s Arsenal exit with cryptic comments despite midfielder’s emotional post

ARSENAL boss Mikel Arteta has refused to confirm whether or not Granit Xhaka will leave the club this summer.

Xhaka, 30, has been heavily linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium in recent weeks.

GettyXhaka has been linked with a move away from Arsenal[/caption]

GettyThe midfielder looked emotional as he completed a lap of honour after the game[/caption]

GettyArteta refused to confirm Xhaka’s departure[/caption]

Bayer Leverkusen are said to be on the verge of signing him in a £15million transfer.

However, Arteta has hinted at a huge U-turn which would see the midfielder stay in north London.

During his post-match press conference following Arsenal’s 5-0 win over Wolves, the Spaniard was asked about Xhaka’s potential departure.

To a question saying Xhaka was off, he responded: “You know that? It’s news for me.”

Arsenal fans gave Xhaka an overwhelming reception at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday amid rumours of his departure.

They continued to chant: “Granit Xhaka, we want you to stay,” throughout the match before giving him a standing ovation when he was substituted in the 75th minute.

The midfielder appeared emotional when he returned to the pitch after full-time to complete a lap of honour with his teammates.

And he shared a touching post on social media with a comment that read: “Nothing but love for you all.”

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Xhaka scored twice against Wolves in what could have been his final game for Arsenal.

Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and new boy Jakub Kiwior also netted as Arsenal claimed a convincing 5-0 win.

GettyXhaka scored twice as Arsenal won 5-0[/caption]