Bayer Leverkusen are reportedly discussing signing Granit Xhaka in the window, as Arsenal look at Youri Tielemans.
According to the print edition of the Sunday People, as relayed by The Boot Room, Bayer Leverkusen are targeting a move for Granit Xhaka and have reportedly held discussions with Arsenal to explore a possible transfer. While there’s no real need for Arsenal to consider a sale of the midfielder, their chase of Youri Tielemans may suggest they could be open to the possibility.
Granit Xhaka has constantly divided the Arsenal fanbase to the extent that many sections of the audience want him gone from the club. Yet, the managers he has played under at the Emirates have trusted in his abilities as the Switzerland captain has been a permanent fixture in the starting XI for the last five seasons.
Last summer, Xhaka came close to departing Arsenal amidst heavy interest from Roma. However, the Italians never agreed on a fee with the Premier League side, and the Swiss international remained at the club, signing a new three-year deal. Manger Mikel Arteta heavily relied on the midfielder throughout the season as Arsenal finished fifth in the Premier League and secured a place in the UEFA Europa League.
Speculation around Xhaka’s possible departure has increased of late, but the midfielder recently reiterated his commitment to Arsenal and insisted he could see out his contract.
However, Arteta and Arsenal wish to add another midfielder in Xhaka’s position and are in pole position to sign Youri Tielemans. The Gunners want to wrap up the transfer of the Belgian superstar once the international break ends and then look to sign a striker.
Tielemans’ pursuit has paved the way for speculations surrounding the future of Xhaka, There have been suggestions that the Swiss midfielder could move, with Roma showing interest again. Now, Bayer Leverkusen are also now vying for the midfielder’s signature and have reportedly opened discussions with Arsenal to explore the possibility of a move.
Bayer Leverkusen have representatives in London as they look to take Xhaka back to the Bundesliga. However, it is not yet clear if the midfielder would be open to a return to the German top flight. The 29-year-old does not have any reason to depart Arsenal and could remain at the club for the coming season.
Arsenal also protected Xhaka’s value by handing him the new contract, and they could command a substantial fee from suitors in case they decide to part ways with him. However, Arteta values the former Gunners’ skipper and will look to keep him at the club, while adding competition in the position with the possible arrival of Tielemans.