After the departure of club legend Bastian Schweinsteiger, Bayern Munich have expressed interest in Granit Xhaka, only to be turned away by Borussia Mönchengladbach.
The 22-year old caught the attention of Bayern Munich earlier this year but his club have warded off any interest, suggesting he is not for sale this summer. Xhaka's strong season with Gladbach, which saw them finish third and qualify for the Champions League, has made him a key member of Lucien Favre's side.
The club's sporting director, Max Eberl confirmed that the player would not be leaving after the club's fantastic campaign. He told BILD, "Granit will under no circumstances switch to Bayern this summer... Granit is staying with us no matter what."
Xhaka is a target for many top European clubs
Xhaka signed a new deal with Gladbach back in February, keeping him at the club until 2019 and installing a buyout clause of €30 million. With a "hands off" warning issued, Bayern may have to look elsewhere to find their replacement for Schweinsteiger.
Xhaka also reiterated his desire to stay with the club he joined from FC Basel in 2012, saying, "I've never had any contact with Bayern. I feel really comfortable [at Gladbach]."
The Swiss midfielder made 30 appearances in the Bundesliga last season, scoring twice and forming a formidable partnership with Christoph Kramer. Favre's men secured Champions League football for next season and Xhaka will be hugely important if they want to impress against Europe's top teams.
At just 22 years old, Xhaka has the chance to develop into one of Europe's best central midfielders if he continues his fine form with Borussia Mönchengladbach. More campaigns like 2014/15 and the continuous participation in the Champions League will only further his career and the club's fortunes. His current employers turning away any interest from Bayern Munich may end up favouring Xhaka in the long run.