Xhaka unlikely for Milan after Saudi Arabia option emerges

Reports in Italy claim that Granit Xhaka is increasingly unlikely to move to Serie A this summer, particularly after an approach from NEOM SC, who gained promotion to the Saudi Pro League at the end of the 2024-25 season. 

Xhaka, who is in line to leave Bayer Leverkusen this summer, had been linked with a move to join Milan, while Juventus and also recently Inter have been mentioned as potential alternative destinations. 

However, according to updates on Monday, the experienced Switzerland international has also been subject of an offer from NEOM, who have offered a lucrative set of personal terms according to Fabrizio Romano. 

Why Xhaka is unlikely to join Milan 

As reported on Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube channel, NEOM are prepared to offer around €10m per season on personal terms, although there is no agreement in place with Leverkusen as things stand. 

The Bundesliga side are reportedly holding out for a fee of €15m, possibly rising to €18m with bonuses included for the 32-year-old former Arsenal midfielder. 

According to Monday’s reports, Milan have yet come close to matching Leverkusen’s demands for Xhaka, nor would they be able to come anywhere close to matching the €10m per season in wages that NEOM are reportedly offering. 

The Rossoneri have still been active in their recruitment of new midfielders with the arrival of Samuele Ricci from Torino and Monday’s arrival of former Ballon d’Or winner Luka Modric.