Granit Xhaka has told Bayer Leverkusen he only wants to join Sunderland, with the Swiss midfielder eager to complete a move to the newly promoted Premier League club.
According to The Athletic, Xhaka has already agreed personal terms with Sunderland and is pressing Leverkusen to finalise the deal quickly. The 32-year-old remains under contract in Germany until 2028 but is now prioritising a return to English football under Regis Le Bris.
Xhaka played a key role in Leverkusen’s recent success, featuring in 99 matches across two seasons and helping the club to a historic Bundesliga title in 2023-24. Prior to his time in Germany, he spent seven years at Arsenal, where he won two FA Cups and made 297 appearances.
Sunderland have been active in the transfer market this summer after winning promotion via the play-offs. They have already signed midfielder Habib Diarra, wingers Simon Adingra and Chemsdine Talbi, full-back Reinildo, and versatile Belgian Noah Sadiki. Xhaka would add significant experience to the midfield following Jobe Bellingham’s departure to Borussia Dortmund.
If completed, the move would mark another high-profile exit from Leverkusen. Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong have both joined Liverpool this summer, with Frimpong’s release clause of €35 million (£29.6m) activated by the Premier League champions.
Leverkusen, now under new head coach Erik ten Hag following Xabi Alonso’s move to Real Madrid, are in discussions to find a resolution. Xhaka has made it clear he wants the transfer done without delay.
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