Arsenal are set to open new contract talks with midfielder Granit Xhaka before the end of the year, according to Football Insider journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Lowdown: New role

Xhaka has been a key member of Mikel Arteta’s side this season, starting every Premier League game. The 30-year-old has played in a central midfield role but has been getting further forward, something that has paid off with an impressive five goal contributions in nine games.

He scored his second goal of the season in the north London derby, and it looks as if the club are now planning to extend his deal as a reward for his impressive form.

The Latest: Contract talks

O’Rourke provided an update for FI regarding Xhaka on Thursday. He revealed that Arsenal are set to open contract talks with the midfielder before the end of the year.

He added that it would come as a ‘major turnaround’ and a ‘surprise’ due to his ‘age, history and previous relationship with the Arsenal fans’.

The Verdict: Good move?

Xhaka’s current deal is set to expire in 2024, so a potential new contract seems to make sense for everyone involved.

He is thriving in a new role and is one of six Arsenal players to average a WhoScored Premier League match rating of 7/10 or more.

Hopefully, his fine form will continue heading into the World Cup, and it looks as if he is on the list for new contracts alongside the likes of Bukayo Saka, William Saliba and Gabriel Martinelli.