Sunderland are reportedly eyeing a high-profile swoop for Bayer Leverkusen’s Granit Xhaka, a midfielder with a wealth of experience and success in the top-flight. The 32-year-old Switzerland international has three years left on his current deal, but Leverkusen may be willing to let him depart this summer.
Xhaka’s credentials are impressive, with 137 caps for Switzerland and a Bundesliga title win with Leverkusen in 2023. He has also enjoyed a successful stint in the Premier League with Arsenal, where he won two FA Cups and made nearly 300 appearances.
Sunderland face stiff competition from Saudi Arabian clubs for Xhaka’s signature, but the Black Cats may offer him the chance to play regular Premier League football. Regis Le Bris’ young team could benefit from Xhaka’s experience and leadership, and his ability to control the tempo of the game.
The signing would be a major coup for Sunderland, who have already made several significant investments this summer. They’ve spent around £106.5m on new players, including Simon Adingra, Habib Diarra, Enzo Le Fee, Noah Sadiki, and Chemsdine Talbi.
According to Sky Sports’ Sam Blitz, Xhaka would be a “stratospheric signing” for Sunderland. Blitz notes that Xhaka’s stability and reliability on the ball were key to Leverkusen’s success last season, where he completed 90% of his passes. He adds that Xhaka’s leadership and experience would be a huge boost to Sunderland’s survival hopes.
If Sunderland can secure Xhaka’s services, it would be a significant statement of intent from the club. With his Premier League pedigree and leadership qualities, Xhaka could play a crucial role in helping the Black Cats navigate the top-flight.
