Communication is occurring with the agent of Xaver Schlager, who is leaving RB Leipzig. If AEK wins the league and secures a place in the Champions League, the possibility of attracting players like Schlager is considered real, although very difficult. Schlager is on the shortlists of clubs outside Germany, and there is discussion of a winter transfer for a lower fee because his contract is expiring in the summer. The player has a significant injury history, including a cruciate ligament injury in 2024, which lowers the transfer cost and necessitates a thorough medical examination.

Xaver Schlager, a 28-year-old Austrian international midfielder for Leipzig whose contract expires in the summer, has been proposed to both AEK Athens and Panathinaikos. Greece is considered a difficult destination for the player, as his high demands regarding his contract and sporting ambitions are a financial deterrent for many clubs. AEK Athens is not involved in the deal because the player's profile and cost do not fit their planning. Panathinaikos is reportedly the only Greek team still seriously mentioned in connection with the player, although the chances of a move are considered limited. Schlager has 49 caps and 4 goals for Austria and in the 2025/2026 Bundesliga season has made 14 appearances, scoring 2 goals. His current market value is €10.00m, according to Transfermarkt. In January 2026, reports stated that RB Leipzig would require a fee of €4-5 million for a winter transfer; his last completed transfer was from VfL Wolfsburg to RB Leipzig in July 2022 for a fee of €12 million.