The 32-year-old Swiss international, who played a pivotal role in Leverkusen's historic 2023/24 Bundesliga title triumph, has reportedly agreed personal terms with Neom SC, according to Sky Germany and transfer expert Nicolo Schira.
The ambitious Saudi club have offered Xhaka a lucrative contract worth approximately 10 million euros net per year, a deal that could see him join former Arsenal teammate Alexandre Lacazette, who recently signed with Neom.
Neom SC, backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund and part of the nation's Vision 2030 project, have already contacted Leverkusen to express their interest, proposing a transfer fee of around 6 million euros, though some reports suggest Leverkusen are holding out for closer to 15-20 million euros, the amount they paid Arsenal for Xhaka in 2023.
Discussions between the clubs gained momentum on Sunday evening, with crucial talks scheduled for Monday to finalize the deal.
Despite interest from European heavyweights like AC Milan, Inter Milan, and Juventus earlier in the transfer window, Neom SC have emerged as the frontrunners, with their head coach Christophe Galtier personally endorsing Xhaka as a key target to bolster their midfield.
Fenerbahce have also entered the race as a potential alternative should the Saudi move falter, but Xhaka's priority appears to be Neom.
Leverkusen, now under the management of Erik ten Hag, have expressed their desire to retain Xhaka, viewing him as a vital leader for the upcoming season.
However, the allure of a high-profile project and a substantial salary could prove too tempting for the midfielder, who has hinted at being open to a new challenge. "I'm always open to new opportunities," Xhaka had said earlier this summer, fueling speculation about his future.
Adding intrigue, Xhaka has reportedly liked social media posts from Neom SC and Galtier, a subtle but telling sign of his interest. With Leverkusen set to depart for a training camp in Rio de Janeiro on Monday evening, it remains unclear whether Xhaka will join the squad or stay behind to finalize his potential transfer.
Neom SC, described as the "richest club in football history," have already made waves this summer, signing high-profile players like Lacazette, Said Benrahma, and Marcin Bulka. A move for Xhaka would further signal their intent to compete at the top of the Saudi Pro League. However, critics have raised concerns about "sportswashing," arguing that such high-profile transfers aim to polish Saudi Arabia's global image.
As talks progress, football fans are eagerly watching to see if Xhaka, a proven leader with 297 appearances for Arsenal and two FA Cup titles, will take his talents to the Middle East, marking a bold new chapter in his successful career.
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