Arsenal to trigger Granit Xhaka contract clause despite Declan Rice transfer pursuit

Arsenal are set to trigger a clause in Granit Xhaka's contract to keep the midfield at the club until 2025.

The 30-year-old has been a key player for Mikel Arteta's side this season, starting all-but one match of the Gunners' Premier League title charge.

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Xhaka's current contract expires in 2024 - but there is already an option in place to extend his deal for another 12 months.

And it is understood Arsenal want the Swiss international to sign a new long-term contract thereafter.

Xhaka has gone from public enemy No.1 at the Emirates to one of the club's most popular players.

The midfielder infamously clashed with fans during a draw with Crystal Palace in 2019 - but he is now thriving in a more attacking role under Arteta.

Having initially convinced Xhaka to stay at the Emirates, Arteta now wants him to commit for the rest of his prime years.

This is despite the club's pursuit of midfielder Declan Rice, who is valued at £100million by West Ham.

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The Gunners recently signed Jorginho from Chelsea for £13m on a short-term deal after a club-record £75m bid for Moises Caicedo was rejected by Brighton.

Arteta is still keen to add long-term depth in midfield, given Thomas Partey's injury record.

Arsenal are hoping £80m will be enough to sign Rice, who is set to enter the final year of his Hammers contract this summer.