Leverkusen Stand Firm: Xhaka Not for Sale Despite Sunderland Agreement

Bayer Leverkusen coach Erik ten Hag has declared that Granit Xhaka will not be allowed to leave, despite growing speculation about a move to the Premier League.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Recent reports confirm that Granit Xhaka has reached an agreement in principle with Sunderland, who recently returned to the Premier League. Xhaka’s agent has publicly called on Leverkusen to permit the transfer. However, Erik ten Hag made his stance very clear, stating, “The agent of Xhaka can say whatever he wants, but this club has already let three important players go, and we won’t let any more go. Granit is a leader, he still has three years left on his contract here.” This response comes after mounting pressure for Leverkusen to sanction the move following Sunderland’s £15 million offer for the Swiss midfielder.

LEVERKUSEN’S SEASON SO FAR

Bayer Leverkusen won the Bundesliga in the 2023/2024 season, marking their first championship title in club history. The team started the new season with confidence, aiming to defend their title and maintain their strong European presence last season, that saw them finish in 2nd place. Xhaka played a key role in midfield throughout last season, making over 40 appearances, contributing with both defensive solidity and leadership on the field. Their next Bundesliga match pits them against Hoffenheim, who finished just one spot, and 3 points above relegation last season.

WHAT NEXT FOR XHAKA AND SUNDERLAND?

Sunderland, newly promoted to the Premier League, are eager to bolster their squad with Xhaka’s experience. They finished the Championship last season in the playoffs and managed to move up to the Premier League and are looking to avoid a relegation battle as the new season gets underway. Sunderland’s next match is away against West Ham, who did not have a successful season last time around. With Leverkusen’s leadership standing firm, Sunderland may be forced to pursue alternative targets, though Xhaka’s camp is still pushing for an exit in the coming weeks. For now, Leverkusen’s message is clear: Xhaka remains a crucial part of their plans.