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.