Sunderland’s ambitious summer transfer strategy has taken another bold step forward with the imminent arrival of Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen. According to renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, all parties have agreed to the move, and the former Arsenal midfielder is expected to sign a contract until 2027. The reported transfer fee is €20 million.
Xhaka, 32, is set to travel to England to complete the formalities of the deal, bringing an experienced presence into a Sunderland squad that has, until now, been built around younger European talent.
That agreement now appears to be in place, despite public comments from Leverkusen manager Erik ten Hag just days ago insisting that Xhaka was “too important to let go.”
Sunderland’s return to the Premier League has already been marked by significant investment. The arrivals of Habib Diarra, Simon Adingra, and Reinildo show a clear intent to remain competitive in the top flight. The addition of Xhaka, with his wealth of Premier League and international experience, adds a crucial layer of leadership and composure to Tony Mowbray’s midfield.
With the challenge of survival in the Premier League growing tougher each season, Sunderland’s blend of youth and experience could prove vital in their campaign to stay up—and thrive.