Report: Bayer Leverkusen in London for Granit Xhaka talks

By Jordan Harris

Bayer Leverkusen have had representatives in London this past week for talks with Arsenal over a potential move for Granit Xhaka, according to a report from the Sunday People (12/6; page 57).

Xhaka has arguably just enjoyed his best campaign yet with the Gunners. He was a key cog in Mikel Arteta’s midfield alongside Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard.

However, it would appear that he could leave the Emirates this summer. Reports claimed Arsenal are working on a deal for Youri Tielemans.

And with that, Xhaka could be given the green light to go. And it seems that a return to the Bundesliga could be on the cards for the Switzerland international.

The Sunday People (12/6; page 57) reports that Leverkusen want the 29-year-old. In fact, they have already held some discussions over his future.

The report suggests that representatives from the German side have been in London in recent days for talks with Arsenal over Xhaka.

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Bayer Leverkusen in Xhaka talks

It would be a gamble for Arsenal to let Xhaka go. They are set to return to European competition this coming season. And with that, their squad is going to be stretched.

They had problems in midfield this past year. So selling Xhaka may only make sense if another midfielder comes in, alongside Tielemans.

Having said that, you can understand why Arsenal may be open to selling Xhaka. His stock has rarely been higher. So the Gunners may feel that the time is right to cash in.

Unfortunately, it has proved difficult to rely on the former Borussia Monchengladbach man at times. And thus, keeping him may seem a risk.

But Mikel Arteta has previously labelled Xhaka a ‘phenomenal‘ player. So much may depend on what sort of fee Leverkusen are prepared to pay.