Erik ten Hag will likely have to do without his midfielder Granit Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen this season. According to Sky Sports, the Swiss international has set his sights on a return to the Premier League.
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José Noguera, the agent of Granit Xhaka, has confirmed to German outlet Sky that his client has reached a personal agreement with Sunderland.
The Swiss international, who is keen on returning to the Premier League, has already laid the groundwork for the move by agreeing to terms with the newly promoted club. Now, all that remains is for Bayer Leverkusen and Sunderland to settle on a transfer fee a step Noguera hopes will be concluded swiftly. “Granit has made his decision. We hope Leverkusen will respect his wish and find an agreement with Sunderland soon,” Noguera stated.
Xhaka’s desire to return to England comes as somewhat of a surprise to many, considering his crucial role at Leverkusen last season. Under manager Xabi Alonso, Xhaka was an ever-present figure in the heart of midfield, providing leadership, experience, and composure that were vital to the club’s Bundesliga title-winning campaign. The Swiss captain featured in 33 league matches, scoring twice and registering seven assists. His presence was not just felt statistically but also in his ability to control the tempo of matches and anchor the team both defensively and in build-up play.
Since joining Leverkusen in the summer of 2023 after leaving Arsenal, Xhaka has become a cornerstone of the German side’s success. In just two seasons, he has racked up 99 appearances across all competitions, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most reliable and consistent midfielders in Europe. His leadership on the pitch was often cited by teammates and coaching staff as a key component of the team’s impressive performances domestically and in Europe.
However, despite his central role at Leverkusen, the lure of the Premier League appears too strong for Xhaka to resist. A return to England would mark a new chapter in his career, but also a return to familiar grounds where he spent seven seasons with Arsenal, making over 250 appearances for the Gunners. During his time in North London, Xhaka experienced highs and lows, including winning FA Cups and enduring periods of tension with the club’s fanbase. Nevertheless, he left Arsenal on a high, having re-established himself as a leader and fan favourite before moving to the Bundesliga.
Sunderland’s interest in Xhaka signals the club’s ambition following their return to the Premier League. Backed by a clear project and seeking experienced players to solidify their squad, Sunderland see Xhaka as an ideal addition who can provide both quality and leadership. His experience in both the Premier League and European competitions is seen as invaluable for a side aiming to not just survive but compete in the top flight.
From Sunderland’s perspective, securing a player of Xhaka’s calibre would be a statement of intent, signalling their readiness to compete with established clubs. It also reflects the broader trend of newly promoted teams investing heavily in experience and proven talent to ensure their top-flight status is not short-lived.
For Leverkusen, Xhaka’s departure would undoubtedly be a blow, especially considering their ambitions to defend the Bundesliga title and make a deeper run in the Champions League. Xabi Alonso would be faced with the challenge of replacing not just a midfield general but also a dressing room leader a void that may not be easily filled.
As negotiations between the clubs continue, it remains to be seen how quickly an agreement can be reached. Reports suggest that Leverkusen are holding out for a substantial fee, given Xhaka’s importance and the two years remaining on his contract. Sunderland, meanwhile, are keen to wrap up the deal promptly to integrate Xhaka into pre-season preparations.
Xhaka himself is said to be eager to embark on this new adventure, motivated by the prospect of a fresh challenge and the chance to return to the English game where he spent a significant part of his career. If the move materializes, the Premier League would regain one of its most combative and technically gifted midfielders and Sunderland would gain a leader capable of shaping their return to the big stage.
Updated: 02:58, 22 Jul 2025
