Granit Xhaka Set To Join Sunderland in Sensational Premier League Return

Granit Xhaka is set to sign for Sunderland in a major transfer move. The Swiss midfielder is expected to join after completing his medical this week. The deal marks Sunderland’s most high-profile signing since returning to the Premier League.

XHAKA FLIES IN FOR MEDICAL AFTER DEAL AGREED

Xhaka will fly to England today, with his medical scheduled for Tuesday. Sunderland and Bayer Leverkusen have agreed on a €20 million transfer fee for the 32-year-old midfielder. Xhaka is set to sign a contract until June 2028, bringing Premier League experience and leadership to the newly promoted club. Sunderland offers him a reported €10 million salary per year, a significant increase from his Leverkusen deal. The switch comes after Leverkusen, despite initial reluctance, chose to sell following a summer of high-profile exits, including stars like Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz and Jonathan Tah. Head coach Erik ten Hag had previously voiced his objection, but the club decided to proceed with the transfer anyway as reported.

WHY SUNDERLAND MOVED FOR XHAKA

Sunderland have just returned to the Premier League after winning promotion last season and are looking to strengthen their squad. The Black Cats are aiming to add top-level experience to improve their chances of survival. Xhaka’s arrival signals their ambition, as he brings over 250 Premier League appearances with Arsenal and a Bundesliga title run with Leverkusen. Last season, Xhaka played 31 Bundesliga matches, scoring 4 goals with 6 assists, helping Leverkusen finish third. Sunderland struggled defensively in pre-season, and Xhaka’s leadership is seen as crucial for stability in midfield.

XHAKA’S DEBUT AND WHAT’S NEXT FOR SUNDERLAND

Sunderland’s first game of the Premier League season is against West Ham next month. The Black Cats finished in the playoff spots in the Championship last season, and managed to get promoted back to the Premier League. They will need points quickly, as their opening fixtures include matches against Manchester United, Aston Villa and Chelsea, all with European ambitions for next season. Sunderland are aware that success or failure in these early games could set the tone for the entire season. If Xhaka passes his medical and gets registered in time, he could debut immediately, bringing both experience and quality as Sunderland look to secure top-flight status.