Bayer Leverkusen are exploring the possibilities of signing Granit Xhaka from Arsenal either this summer or in 2024, Sky Sports reports.
- Bayer Leverkusen reignite interest in Granit Xhaka
- Arsenal want Declan Rice from West Ham
- Leverkusen prepared to wait until 2024
What is the news?
Last summer Bundesliga side Leverkusen were very close in signing Xhaka. The Swiss midfielder had a difficult season under Mikel Arteta and nearly left the Gunners during the summer window. A move back to Germany eventually failed and later on Xhaka fought himself back on the team that is competing for the Premier League title this season. Now Bayer are ready to try and sign Xhaka again and preferably this summer. However, according to Sky Germany, the club managed by Xabi Alonso are prepared to wait until his contract expires in the summer of 2024.
The backstory
The 30-year-old Xhaka joined Arsenal seven seasons ago and has been considered a first-team choice and even club captain for most part of his Gunners career. During his stay with the club his relationship with the fans has had its ups and downs, but most recently the Swiss midfielder has been embraced by the Arsenal fans. He has featured over 300 times for Arsenal.
What next for Xhaka?
The midfielder’s future looks to depend on Arsenal’s transfer activity this summer. The Gunners are interested in signing West Ham United’s star Declan Rice, but will have to pay a hefty 120 million euro transfer fee to secure the England international’s signature. Of a transfer of Rice fails, Arsenal are looking to keep Xhaka on board next season.
