Marco Rose is keen to reunite with Xaver Schlager at AFC Bournemouth, with the Austrian midfielder available on a free transfer this summer, according to reports in Germany. Bild states that the newly-appointed Cherries head coach wants to bring the 27-year-old to the Premier League, capitalising on the expiry of his contract at RB Leipzig. The club has already confirmed it will not be extending Schlager's deal, making him a free agent.
Schlager played under Rose during the coach's tenure at RB Leipzig, which lasted from September 2022 until March 2025. Rose was officially confirmed as Bournemouth's next manager earlier this month, set to take over from Andoni Iraola ahead of the new season. The potential move represents an early attempt by Rose to shape his squad with a familiar and trusted player from his previous role.
The experienced Austrian international, who has 45 caps for his country, provides a proven option in central midfield. Schlager joined Leipzig from Wolfsburg in 2022 and has been a consistent performer in the Bundesliga and Champions League, known for his defensive work rate and ball-winning abilities. His availability without a transfer fee makes him an attractive prospect for several clubs across Europe.
According to the reports, Schlager is not short of suitors, with Celtic, Juventus, and Roma also linked with a move for the player. It is suggested that Schlager may delay a final decision on his next club until after this summer's World Cup, where he is expected to feature prominently for Austria. This timeline could see the transfer saga extend into July or August.
For Bournemouth, securing a player of Schlager's calibre and experience on a free transfer would be a significant coup as they look to consolidate their Premier League status under new management. His acquisition would add steel and top-level know-how to the Cherries' engine room. For Schlager, a move to the Premier League offers a new challenge and the chance to work again with a manager who knows his game intimately.
