AC Milan step up transfer talks for Granit Xhaka

AC Milan are accelerating their efforts to sign Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka this summer.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Milan sporting director Igli Tare has flown to Germany to hold talks with the Bundesliga giants.

The Rossoneri are willing to offer up to €10 million to prise the Swiss international away from Leverkusen.

Having already sealed an agreement for Luka Modric’s free transfer, Milan are looking to add another experienced midfielder to the ranks.

Manager Massimiliano Allegri has identified Xhaka as a player who can help  Milan compete for trophies next season.

The 32-year-old has enjoyed a resurgence since moving to Leverkusen from Arsenal.

He played a key role in Leverkusen scaling new heights, winning the Bundesliga title in the 2023/24 season.

The former Gunners star bagged two goals and seven assists in 49 games this season, helping Die Werkself finish as runners-up in the league.

Xhaka is one of the best deep-lying playmakers in Europe, averaging 9.54 progressive passes, 10.90 final-third passes and 1.43 key passes per game.

With Tijjani Reijnders joining Manchester City and Yunus Musah pursued by Napoli, Allegri needs a significant rebuild in the midfield.

The Rossoneri have lacked a player of Xhaka’s ilk in recent years, and his leadership qualities would help revive the entire midfield.

Leverkusen will be eager to keep Xhaka after losing Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong in this transfer window.

The German giants hold the leverage in the negotiations as Xhaka’s contract expires in June 2028.

Milan are in advanced talks to sign Valencia midfielder Javi Guerra. They have submitted an offer of around €20 million and are hoping to seal an agreement quickly.

Torino’s Samuele Ricci and Parma defender Giovanni Leoni are also on Milan’s wishlist as Allegri looks to build a squad with a blend of youth and experience.