Bayer Leverkusen are bracing themselves to be raided once the summer transfer market opens

Exequiel Palacios has hinted at life beyond Bayer Leverkusen while reflecting on his time at the Bundesliga champions.

The Argentine achieved eternal glory earlier this month - helping Die Werkself win their first Bundesliga title. Pandemonium erupted around the BayArena as Xabi Alonso’s men ended Bayern Munich’s 11-year grip on the division.

Many have backed Leverkusen’s side to be ripped apart by European heavyweights despite the promise of Champions League football. Alonso has already signalled his intention to stay but clubs will be circling their star assets this summer.

Palacios provided the steel to the title-winning team, protecting the backline alongside former Arsenal general Granit Xhaka. Newcastle are understood to be one of several Premier League clubs chasing the midfielder.

He is valued at around £40million after penning a bumper contract extension last year. Signed in 2020, the 25-year-old has developed into one of the best holding midfielders in Germany.

But Palacios has given an ambiguous answer when grilled about his Leverkusen future. While praising his time at the club, he appeared to leave the door open for potential suitors this summer

“Bayer Leverkusen met all my expectations,” Palacios told reporters. “Here I was always able to develop more as a player. I enjoy being in Germany, I am very comfortable and happy. I don’t think about the future, then we’ll see where I’m going next.”

As for Newcastle, they have lacked a defensive-minded midfielder all season, relying on Bruno Guimaraes in the deep-lying role. Eddie Howe does not have a traditional “sitter” in his ranks and signing one could allow Guimaraes to play further forward.