Granit Xhaka Premier League returns gathers pace as Leverkusen maestro eyes Sunderland switch in dramatic return to English football.
Former Arsenal captain Granit Xhaka is on the verge of a dramatic returns to the Premier League, this time not with a top-six giant, but with newly-promoted Sunderland.
After leaving Arsenal in 2023 following a seven-year stint and nearly 300 appearances, Xhaka joined Bayer Leverkusen and played a pivotal role in their unbeaten Bundesliga title-winning campaign under Xabi Alonso.
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But with Alonso now at Real Madrid and Leverkusen experiencing a summer exodus with the departures of Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong to Liverpool, Xhaka appears poised to follow suit.
According to The Athletic, Xhaka has already agreed personal terms with Sunderland and is eager to join the Black Cats. His agent, José Noguera, confirmed: “Granit wants to return to the Premier League. Sunderland excites him, and he wants to take on this challenge.
The 32-year-old reportedly turned down interest from Saudi and Turkish clubs, as well as AC Milan, choosing Sunderland for its ambition and project under manager Régis Le Bris. The club has already spent over £100 million this summer, bringing in talents like Simon Adingra, Habib Diarra, and Enzo Le Fée.
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Negotiations between Sunderland and Leverkusen are ongoing, with the transfer fee estimated around £8.7 million. Xhaka still has three years left on his contract, but he’s asked Leverkusen to expedite the process so he can join Sunderland in time for pre-season.
Xhaka’s leadership, tactical intelligence, and deep midfield control could be transformative for Sunderland. He’s been capped 137 times by Switzerland and has played in multiple World Cups and European Championships. His experience could be vital in helping Sunderland avoid the fate of many promoted sides.
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