Despite interest from AC Milan, Inter, and Juventus, Granit Xhaka appears ready to turn down Serie A in favor of a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League.
Newly promoted Neom SC are in advanced negotiations to sign the Swiss international from Bayer Leverkusen, offering a package that Italian clubs simply could not match.
According to Kicker and Tuttosport, Xhaka has already accepted personal terms, agreeing to a four-year deal worth €10 million per season.
Only the agreement between the two clubs remains, with Leverkusen holding out for at least €10 million in transfer fees – double the current €6 million offer on the table from Neom.
Why Xhaka Chose Saudi over Milan or Juventus
Xhaka was considered by Milan earlier this summer, especially following their moves for Luka Modric and Samuele Ricci.
However, the Rossoneri ultimately shifted focus to Ardon Jashari, leaving Xhaka free to evaluate other offers.
Inter, meanwhile, were reportedly interested in bringing him in as cover should Hakan Calhanoglu depart, while Juventus explored the possibility as part of their own midfield overhaul. But ultimately, none of the Italian clubs could match the financial muscle or long-term security of Neom’s offer.
The deciding factor appears to be not just the money but the chance to work with Christophe Galtier, Neom’s new manager, who was personally involved in pushing the deal forward.
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Xhaka Transfer Fee
Bayer Leverkusen are reluctant to let go of a key piece in their historic 2023/24 Bundesliga title-winning squad, especially for less than what they paid to sign him from Arsenal.
Xhaka played a pivotal role in Xabi Alonso’s unbeaten team, adding control, leadership, and tactical discipline in midfield.
Club sporting director Simon Rolfes is reportedly holding out for €10–20 million, especially with Neom’s financial backing from a sovereign wealth fund giving them ample room to maneuver.
Xhaka’s arrival would be the latest statement move by Neom, who have already signed Alexandre Lacazette, Said Benrahma, Bulka, and Amadou Kone. With Galtier at the helm, the club is quickly becoming one of the Saudi Pro League’s most intriguing projects.
Pairing Xhaka with Lacazette, his former Arsenal teammate, would not only strengthen the squad but also boost the club’s visibility and credibility on the global stage.
Losing out on Xhaka is a blow for Serie A clubs hoping to add experienced, top-level quality to their midfields without breaking the bank. His mix of passing vision, ball-winning ability, and leadership would have made him a strong asset in Italy.
