German champions Bayern Munich have emerged as shock contenders to sign Arsenal star Granit Xhaka in the summer transfer window. That's according to Swiss outlet 4-4-2, who claim the perennial Bundesliga winners are showing concrete interest in landing the midfielder.
An offer is said to be prepared that would see Xhaka join on a three-year deal, with an option of an extra year added on top. The move from Thomas Tuchel to reinforce his central ranks could come as a boost to the Gunners, with interest shown from clubs elsewhere.
Bayer Leverkusen have been the strongest link in recent weeks, with Xabi Alonso hopeful of adding the Switzerland international to his squad. football.london understands that the German side were in advanced talks about a deal in May, with an offer of around £13million expected.
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Bundesliga runners-up Borussia Dortmund have also been loosely tied with interest, all of which could spark a bidding war and drive his price up further.
Any move would spell an end to Xhaka's seven-year stay at the Emirates Stadium, where he has flipped between being a fan favourite, to something of a villain, only to return to club icon status. This season may be the ideal way for him to sign off too, having recorded his best ever goal involvement return with his new advanced position.
It culminated in an atmosphere of appreciation during the final game of the Premier League campaign against Wolves, where he scored a 15-minute brace. Chants from fans in the ground were surrounding their desire for him to stay, with Mikel Arteta praising his contribution.
"Well deserved. He’s had an incredible season," the Spaniard said on his midfield general. "I think one year back I spoke to him and I told him ‘there’s a question mark on you, you have to deliver more, you have to be better, I’m going to challenge you to play here.’
"He went back and I think he started to train the next day. He came back in preseason four kilos less, fit, with this face *screws his face to show focus* and really willing to do it. He’s been exceptional. He’s been a key part of the team, the success of the team and I’m so happy everybody is appreciating what he’s done."
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