Granit Xhaka's AC Milan move stalls as Bayer Leverkusen dig in
AC Milan's pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen's Granit Xhaka has hit a wall, with the Bundesliga club refusing to budge on their star midfielder.
Report: Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka open to AC Milan move
The Bayer Leverkusen star has reportedly approved a move to the Italian giants, with a deal expected to cost Milan between 8-10 million euros.
Xhaka, a vital figure in Leverkusen's historic 2023-24 campaign that saw them lift both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal trophies, now appears set for a new chapter.
Despite initial resistance, Leverkusen have softened their stance and are now willing to listen to offers, provided their valuation is met. The club had previously suggested they would make his departure difficult.
With Leverkusen entering a transitional phase under new coach Erik ten Hag, the German side has already lost key players including Jonathan Tah to Bayern Munich, and Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong to Liverpool.
Though Ten Hag is reportedly keen to keep Xhaka at the BayArena, the midfielder is pushing for an exit amid uncertainty over the club's direction.
At Milan, newly appointed sporting director Igli Tare is spearheading the pursuit. Tare is expected to travel to Germany to meet with Xhaka's representatives and accelerate negotiations.
Manager Massimiliano Allegri sees the Swiss international as a crucial addition to his midfield, valuing Xhaka's experience and leadership.
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