Xhaka becomes 3rd most expensive Arsenal transfer

Arsene Wenger, stubborn purveyor of penny-pinching no more.

With Swiss international midfielder Granit Xhaka's transfer confirmed Wednesday, the Borussia Monchengladbach standout became Arsenal's third-most expensive acquisition at an initial fee believed to be £25 million.

Related: Arsenal completes Xhaka signing; initial fee reportedly £25M​

Multiple reports suggest that figure could ultimately rise to £30 million if various bonuses are hit.

As such, here's a look at the club's 10 costliest transfers:

Xhaka, 23, becomes Arsenal's third signing of at least £20 million while the north London side's competitors continue to spend aggressively. Manchester City has had 20 transfers in excess of £20 million, Chelsea 15, and Manchester United third with 13. Even Liverpool's made nine moves of £20 million or more.

Known to opt for apprehension in the transfer market as compared to England's other top sides, Wenger may open the pocketbook this summer.

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

Serenaded by a chorus of whistles numerous times this year from a fan base desperate for a first title since 2003-04, the 20-year tenured gaffer may forsake the beliefs accrued while completing his economics degree at the University of Strasbourg, and Xhaka may be just the beginning.