Granit Xhaka Set for Shock Premier League Comeback in €20M Move to Sunderland

Granit Xhaka looks set to make a sensational return to the Premier League, with newly promoted Sunderland closing in on a deal to sign the Swiss midfielder from Bayer Leverkusen for €20 million ($23.5 million).

After spending seven years at Arsenal and a season in Germany where he helped Leverkusen lift both the Bundesliga and German Cup, Xhaka could now be gearing up for an unexpected reunion with English football—this time in the red and white of the Black Cats. 

The move had seemed unlikely just a few days ago, when Leverkusen’s new head coach Erik ten Hag publicly dismissed the possibility of Xhaka leaving. "This club has already let three important players go. We will not give up more players, that is not possible. It would neglect the structure and the culture of the squad," Ten Hag told reporters during Leverkusen’s pre-season tour in Brazil. “It’s clear – Granit is a key player, he signed here for five years and still has three years left on his contract. He’s too important to us to let him go.” 

Despite the manager’s reluctance, Leverkusen’s hierarchy has now softened its stance. Sporting director Simon Rolfes confirmed that talks with Sunderland are progressing. "There will be a decision this week. Granit's side knows about the conditions under which a transfer is possible. If that doesn't happen he will stay," Rolfes said, suggesting the door is now open for a move. 

Reports on Monday claimed that Xhaka has been granted permission to travel to England to complete the transfer, with a three-year deal on the table. It’s a bold statement of intent from Sunderland, who are making some serious waves in their first summer back in the top flight after an eight-year absence. 

Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris has already been backed with £100 million in transfer funds, bringing in a host of new faces. Brighton winger Simon Adingra, Strasbourg’s Habib Diarra, and promising Belgian midfielder Noah Sadiki are among those who’ve joined. Chemsdine Taibi and Reinildo have also come through the door, while the loan deal for Enzo Le Fée has been made permanent. The club also recently pulled the plug on a £17.5 million deal for Armand Laurienté due to personal terms, showing they’re not willing to overspend—but are ready to splash the cash when the right opportunity presents itself. 

Bringing in a player of Xhaka’s pedigree signals how serious Sunderland are about staying in the Premier League. The 31-year-old’s experience, leadership, and no-nonsense style could be just what Le Bris needs to anchor a young and evolving squad. Xhaka, who made over 290 appearances for Arsenal between 2016 and 2023, has been a steady performer wherever he’s gone. In his first season at Leverkusen, he was a central figure in their historic double-winning campaign. Despite the heartbreak of losing the Europa League final to Atalanta, the season was one of the most memorable in the club’s history—and Xhaka played a huge role. 

With Sunderland preparing for their final few pre-season friendlies against Real Betis, Augsburg, and Rayo Vallecano, the potential addition of Xhaka gives fans even more reason to be optimistic. His arrival might just be the anchor that helps Sunderland hold their own in the top flight once again.