Granit Xhaka: Yann Sommer backs Switzerland teammate's summer move to Arsenal

Borussia Monchengladbach goalkeeper Yann Sommer has admitted that Granit Xhaka's move to Arsenal this summer is a big blow for the Bundesliga club, but has backed the midfielder to be a success in the Premier League. The goalkeeper is confident they can find an able replacement and unveil the 'new Xhaka' of the team next season.

The Gladbach midfielder, who completed a £30m ($43m) move to the Gunners, following the end of the domestic campaign, will join his club teammate at Euro 2016 as they both also represent Switzerland.

Arsene Wenger began his transfer activity early this summer and moved to secure the signature of the Gladbach midfielder, who they were scouting for over a year. The Frenchman was keen to sign a midfielder at the earliest to fill the void left by the departures of Mikel Arteta, Tomas Rosicky and Mathieu Flamini.

Sommer, however, has backed Xhaka's move to the Emirates Stadium and believes it was the right time for his compatriot to make the step up and fulfil a long standing dream of playing in the Premier League. The 27-year-old goalkeeper has also been linked with a move to Manchester City, who are set to be managed by Pep Guardiola next season. However, he has quashed the speculation and committed his future to the Bundesliga club, who have qualified for the Champions League after finishing fourth in the league.

"He was a player with personality, very important for the team. He had the reins in his hands. He was the designer, who often ran the whole game. Now we have to find a new designer. But I am convinced that the Borussia as does a good job and soon introduces the new Granit Xhaka," Sommer said, as quoted by German publication Sport Bild.

"I'm happy for him, because I think it is the right time for him to move from a very good to a very large and good club in England," the keeper said, "That was always his dream, so did I congratulated him. And I am convinced that he will make in England."

"When the season is over there is much speculation. But a rumor is a rumor. I am very happy at Borussia. It makes a lot of fun with the team because of the style we play, for a goalkeeper is beautiful. I look forward to the new season," the Switzerland international explained.