Sunderland are aiming high this summer, with reports suggesting the newly promoted side are exploring a stunning move for Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka.
Despite having three years left on his contract with the Bundesliga outfit, Xhaka could be allowed to leave during the transfer window. Softfootball understands that Sunderland have made the 32-year-old a top target, hoping to make him the centrepiece of their Premier League campaign.
While a move back to England may surprise some, it’s not out of the question. Xhaka is said to be open to a fresh challenge and Goal reported Sunderland’s interest aligns with his desire for meaningful playing time in a competitive league. Still, they’ll face stiff competition, including interest from Saudi Arabian clubs.
After selling Jobe Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund for £32 million, Sunderland have reinvested heavily. Simon Adingra joined from Brighton for £20m, and Softfootball also reported a £30m deal for Habib Diarra from Strasbourg. Other arrivals include Enzo Le Fée (£20m) from Roma, Noah Sadiki (£17.5m) from Union Saint-Gilloise, and Chemsdine Talbi (£19m) from Club Brugge.
Even with all these signings, the potential arrival of Xhaka would be on another level. A veteran of nearly 300 games for Arsenal and over 130 caps for Switzerland, Xhaka brings leadership, grit, and top-flight experience.
During his time at Arsenal, he won two FA Cups, and despite controversies, including being stripped of the captaincy, managers like Wenger and Arteta continued to trust him.
His time at Leverkusen has been remarkable. He has played 66 matches for the German side, helping the club win the Bundesliga, and featured in every Champions League game. Statistically, only Joshua Kimmich completed more open play and final-third passes in Germany last season.
Of course, a switch to Sunderland, a team expected to fight relegation, would offer a different challenge than his time in North London or Leverkusen. But Xhaka’s influence on and off the pitch could be exactly what Regis Le Bris needs to steady the ship.
If Sunderland manage to pull this off, they won’t just gain a midfielder; they’ll be adding a proven leader and one of the most experienced players available on the market.
