AC Milan to open talks with Granit Xhaka following Luka Modric agreement as Massimiliano Allegri's midfield overhaul continues

Milan are set to initiate formal negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen for Xhaka as part of Massimiliano Allegri's ongoing project of midfield rebuild, according to Gazzetta dello Sport. The Swiss international, who joined Leverkusen from Arsenal in 2023, remains under contract until June 2028. The Italian club believe the player is open to moving due to a change in management and a shift in the squad. However, Milan must first reach a transfer agreement with the German club.

Having agreed a one-year contract with Modric, Milan are continuing their push to bring in experienced midfielders. Xhaka, 32, is seen as a key target due to his leadership qualities and consistent performance; he led Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title and DFB-Pokal in the 2023-24 season, along with the DFL-Supercup in 2024-25. Last season, he made 33 Bundesliga appearances, scoring two goals and dishing seven assists. As well as Xhaka, Milan are eyeing younger players like Javi Guerra and Ardon Jashari.

Xhaka has earned 137 caps for Switzerland, making him one of the country's most experienced internationals. He previously spent seven years at Arsenal, including time as captain, and has featured in 649 professional matches so far across Switzerland, Germany, and England.

Milan are expected to begin talks with Leverkusen in the coming weeks. Xhaka's current value is reported to be €12 million (£10m/$13m), and the Italians do not view his wages as an obstacle. The club have already raised significant funds through player sales, including Tijjani Reijnders to Manchester City and the anticipated transfer of Yunus Musah to Napoli.