Bayer Leverkusen are serious about Granit Xhaka and want to bring the 30-year-old back to Germany if Arsenal would allow it.

According to John Cross of The Mirror, Bayer Lerkusen are interested in Granit Xhaka ahead of the summer. The Swiss international has a year left on his deal with a club option for another season. The Bundesliga giants will look to convince Arsenal and the player of a move.

Granit Xhaka has had a fantastic season in a newly defined role at Arsenal. Mikel Arteta has seemingly moved on from a double pivot in midfield to playing with two eights this season. The 30-year-old has played an integral part in this system, operating on the left-hand side behind the front three.

Not many would have expected the 30-year-old to flourish as he has done, with goals and assists coming in plenty. He has directly contributed to 14 goals so far (seven goals and seven assists). In fact, Arsenal have at times struggled without the Swiss maestro in their side, which tends to show how important he is in the squad.

While there is no direct indication that Xhaka’s place has come under threat, Arsenal’s summer plans could provide that hint. The Gunners reportedly want Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo in the close season. It shows their intent to strengthen the midfield area significantly.

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If these two arrive, Xhaka’s place will have tremendous competition. It will leave Arsenal with the luxury of having at least six top-class midfielders, along with Fabio Vieira and even Emile Smith Rowe. Despite big competition for places in the current season, the 30-year-old has stood his ground in this squad.

However, there might come an opportunity in the summer, with Bayer Leverkusen sizing up a move for the 30-year-old. Xabi Alonso, who happens to be Arteta’s old friend, wants the Swiss star on his side ahead of the new season.

Considering Arsenal are also interested in Moussa Diaby in the summer, one can do the math and link the two together. However, there are considerable doubts about Xhaka leaving Arsenal when he peaks as a player at this moment of his career.

Moreover, Xhaka remains eager to stay at Arsenal, and talks over a new contract have occurred. In any case, the Gunners can extend his current deal by another season until 2025 and have the chance to fetch a reasonable fee next summer if needed.

Also Read: Premier League GW 35 Roundup: Arsenal, Liverpool gain; Manchester United stumble

Additionally, Xhaka has been an exceptional presence in this team, helping them into the Champions League after a long time out. Hence, there is little sense for the 30-year-old to leave for the Bundesliga giants, who may continue playing in the Europa League.

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