Sunderland set to sign Granit Xhaka from Leverkusen | OneFootball

Sunderland have reached an agreement with Bayer Leverkusen for the signing of Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka (h/t journalist Fabrizio Romano).

The deal is worth around €20 million, with the player expected to sign a contract that will run until 2027.

The 32-year-old has already been given the green light to complete his move to the Stadium of Light.

Xhaka, who spent several years in England with Arsenal, is now set to return to the Premier League after a strong spell in Germany.

The Swiss international helped Leverkusen to a historic 2023/24 campaign, where they went unbeaten in the Bundesliga to lift the title.

He also played a vital role in the club’s DFB Pokal success that same season.

Xhaka will boost Sunderland’s survival hopes

Sunderland have been active in the summer transfer window as they aim to remain in the Premier League next season.

Xhaka’s arrival adds even more depth to their midfield and shows the club’s intent to build a squad strong enough to avoid relegation.

Manager Regis Le Bris has already welcomed several new signings, but adding Xhaka to the squad is a major statement.

The former Arsenal man had attracted interest from several top clubs, including AC Milan and Juventus.

However, the midfielder had a strong preference for a return to the Premier League, which helped Sunderland secure the deal.

Xhaka offers leadership and experience that could prove vital in a long top-flight campaign.

The move is expected to be completed shortly, with only medicals and final paperwork left before an official announcement.