Bayern Munich make 'concrete offer' to Arsenal star Granit Xhaka as German giants plan to hijack transfer

Bayern Munich have entered the race to sign Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka, according to reports in Switzerland.

Xhaka, 30, is expected to leave Arsenal this summer and all-but confirmed his departure by posting a goodbye message on social media earlier this week.

After scoring twice on the final day of the season against Wolves on Sunday, Xhaka took to Instagram in the following days to post a picture of himself alongside the caption: "Two goals for the goodbye", followed by a teardrop emoji.

Former Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Xhaka was expected to return to German football with Bayer Leverkusen, with negotiations reported to be at an advanced stage with Arsenal.

But that move may be put on hold amid reports Bayern Munich are interested in signing Xhaka.

Bayern have also been linked with Arsenal transfer target Declan Rice, with talks recently taking place between Munich manager Thomas Tuchel and the West Ham captain.

However, the Daily Mail have reported that Rice is set to snub a move to the Bundesliga to remain in Premier League instead, amid interest from Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea.

Bayern enter race for Xhaka

Swiss outlet 4-4-2 (via Sport Witness) claim Bayern have 'entered the poker game' for Xhaka and have made a 'concrete offer'.

It is claimed they have offered the midfielder a three-year deal with the option of a further year.

However, Bayern's bid is said to 'not enjoy priority' as Bayer Leverkusen have offered a five-year deal.

Xhaka's family would also prefer to live in the Rhineland again as opposed to Munich, according to the report.

Leverkusen are also believed to be offering Xhaka 'employment beyond the contract' he would be given, such as a role in the club's academy after retirement.

But there is still work to be done if Leverkusen are to sign Xhaka, with negotiations ongoing with Arsenal over a fee for the midfielder.

The Gunners are said to be demanding €25m (£21.4m), which Leverkusen are hoping to bring down to a more affordable level.

Topics: Granit Xhaka, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Football, Transfers, Bundesliga, Premier League

Rory O'Callaghan

Rory O'Callaghan is Editorial Lead at SPORTbible. He has previously worked for Sky Sports News, MailOnline and Reach covering football, cricket, boxing and MMA. Tested daily as a Liverpool fan in a Manchester office.

@rory_ocallaghan