Bayern to hijack Leverkusen move for Xhaka after outgoing star’s ‘goodbye’ post

BAYERN MUNICH are reportedly set to hijack Bayer Leverkusen's move for Granit Xhaka.

Xhaka, 30, has been heavily linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium in recent weeks.

Bayer Leverkusen are said to be on the verge of signing him in a £15million transfer.

Xhaka scored twice against Wolves in what could have been his final game for Arsenal.

Arsenal fans then gave Xhaka an overwhelming reception at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday amid rumours of his departure.

They continued to chant: "Granit Xhaka, we want you to stay," throughout the match before giving him a standing ovation when he was substituted in the 75th minute.

The midfielder appeared emotional when he returned to the pitch after full-time to complete a lap of honour with his teammates.

And he shared a touching post on social media that hinted at his departure with a comment that read: “Nothing but love for you all.”

In another cryptic social media move, he reposted an Instagram story from Puma with a caption that read: "Two goals for the goodbye."

However, German publication 4-4-2 has claimed that despite being offered a five-year contract by Leverkusen, Bayern are now ready to pounce.

The Bundesliga champions are desperate for midfield reinforcements but have allegedly been snubbed by West Ham's Declan Rice.

Now this fresh update states that they have targeted a late move to try and get the Switzerland international instead.

Xhaka, who cost £38.25m when he joined from Monchengladbach in 2016, was ready to quit the Gunners after being stripped of the captaincy by former boss Unai Emery in 2019 when he swore at fans while being substituted.

But he is currently enjoying his best spell since his arrival in North London and played a huge role in helping them to finish second in the Premier League this term.