West Ham ready surprise Granit Xhaka transfer as compensation emerges
West Ham are ready to challenge their Premier League rivals to a fresh signing as their transfer window picks up pace.
Kyle Walker-Peters is the latest arrival at the London Stadium after joining the Hammers on a free transfer.
He followed El Hadji Malick Diouf through the West Ham door, meaning Graham Potter now has several new players within his ranks.
Now, the Irons are eyeing a move for Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka, who has been heavily linked with a move this summer.
West Ham interested in bringing Xhaka to London Stadium
While West Ham have reportedly made a bid for Douglas Luiz, it seems that Potter wants more midfielders for his squad.
The East London outfit do possess some quality options in the centre of the park, but could do with added quality.
Edson Alvarez, Tomas Soucek, and Guido Rodriguez are among Potter’s current crop, but were inconsistent last term.
Now, the Hammers are interested in signing Xhaka, according to the Rheinische Post (21 July, page C4).
| Granit Xhaka’s 2024/25 Bundesliga statistics | Total |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 7 |
| Touches | 94.5 |
| Accurate passes | 75.8 (91%) |
| Big chances created | 7 |
The Irons join Sunderland, who have been heavily linked with the 32-year-old, in a list of clubs that is getting longer and longer.
With the Swiss international’s contract running until 2028, Leverkusen’s director of football, Simon Rolfes, described it as a win-win situation.
Furthermore, the German club would be due around £17million in compensation should a deal go through.
Leverkusen manager Erik ten Hag has spoken about how the midfielder should stay, although his future remains in doubt.
Xhaka of interest, but how has he been playing for Leverkusen?
Xhaka has enjoyed a career renaissance since leaving Arsenal for the Bundesliga in the summer of 2023.
In his first season with the German club, the midfielder played a pivotal role in Leverkusen winning their first-ever Bundesliga title.
Last season, the 32-year-old continued his influence in Xabi Alonso’s engine room, notching nine league goal contributions.
Although he has been a key player for Leverkusen, speculation has been circulating about his immediate future.
Saudi Arabian side Neom SC were interested in Xhaka’s services, with Sunderland keen to bring him to the Premier League.
However, West Ham now represents an intriguing option for the Swiss international, who has a decision to make on his future.
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