Granit Xhaka: Bayer Leverkusen remain interested in signing Arsenal midfielder but deal next summer more likely
According to reports from Sky Germany, Bayer Leverkusen are still interested in signing Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka, although a move is more likely to happen next summer when his contract with the Gunners expires. Bayer are said to be seeking an aggressive leader in midfield, and Xhaka has reportedly told fellow players about his interest in a potential Bundesliga return later in his career. Xhaka was previously Arsenal club captain, and although that role has now been taken up by Martin Odegaard, he has skippered the team in the Europa League this season.
Bayer have attempted to sign Xhaka twice before, most recently in the summer of 2020. However, the Switzerland captain has re-established himself in the Arsenal team under Mikel Arteta this season and has been a key player for the Gunners as they compete for the Premier League title. Neither Xhaka's agency nor Bayer have commented on Sky Germany's report, and Arsenal have also not responded to requests for comment from Sky Sports News.
In other transfer news, West Ham United have reportedly set a price tag of £120m for
midfielder Declan Rice, and are willing to accept £100m plus a player from a Champions League club. The Hammers have already received enquiries about Rice, who will have one year left on his contract this summer, with Arsenal believed to be the most likely destination for the England international. Chelsea, Manchester United, and Liverpool have also reportedly shown interest in Rice.
West Ham have the option of extending Rice's contract by another year, but the 22-year-old rejected the offer of a new £200,000-a-week deal 18 months ago. The London club will only sell if they receive an acceptable offer, and any proceeds from a potential sale will go towards strengthening the squad in the summer.
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