Rumor has it that Xabi's representative, Iñaki Ibáñez, has recently held secret negotiations with Real Madrid. And guess who's not surprised? None other than the Leverkusen brass, who are playing a waiting game, eagerly awaiting Xabi's decision.

Will he stay loyal to Leverkusen, or will the allure of Real Madrid prove too strong? If Xabi decides to jump ship, Leverkusen is expecting a hefty compensation of €15-20m.

Here's the twist: Real Madrid hasn't yet made a formal offer to Leverkusen. But with Carlo Ancelotti under intense scrutiny after their recent Champions League elimination, the stage is set for a potential coaching shake-up.