In one of the more unexpected twists of the summer transfer window, Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka has reportedly set his sights on a Premier League return – with newly promoted Sunderland his sole destination of choice.
According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, the former Arsenal stalwart has informed Leverkusen that he wants the move to Wearside finalized quickly, with personal terms already agreed between the Swiss international and the Black Cats.
The 32-year-old joined Leverkusen from Arsenal in 2023 and was instrumental in the German side’s historic Bundesliga triumph last season. Under then-manager Xabi Alonso, Xhaka made 99 appearances across two seasons, anchoring midfield with the same fire and leadership that defined his tenure in North London.
Saudi Pro League side Neom had previously been linked with a big-money approach, but it now appears the Switzerland captain is focused solely on a return to English football – with Sunderland emerging as the shock frontrunners.
Should the deal go through, Xhaka would bring invaluable experience to the Stadium of Light, boasting 225 Premier League appearances, 17 goals, and 24 assists from his Arsenal days. His presence could provide a massive boost for the Championship playoff winners as they look to establish themselves in the top flight once more.
Meanwhile, new Leverkusen boss Erik ten Hag is already facing a major rebuild, having lost star duo Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong to Liverpool. The potential departure of Xhaka would mark another high-profile exit as the Dutchman begins life in the BayArena dugout.