Xhaka Joins Sunderland After Leverkusen Success

Sunderland are poised to complete the signing of experienced midfielder Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen in a deal worth up to £17 million. The initial £13 million fee could rise to £17 million with performance-based add-ons.

The 32-year-old Swiss international is expected to undergo a medical shortly before signing a three-year contract at the Stadium of Light. This move marks Xhaka's return to the Premier League after his successful seven-year spell with Arsenal.

During his time at Arsenal (2016-2023), Xhaka made an impressive 297 appearances across all competitions, captained the side, and won two FA Cup trophies. His subsequent two-year stint at Bayer Leverkusen saw him play a pivotal role in their historic 2023-24 Bundesliga title triumph.

This acquisition continues Sunderland's ambitious summer spending spree, bringing their total outlay to £114 million. The club has offset some of these costs through player sales, including:

• Jobe Bellingham (£25 million to Borussia Dortmund)
• Tommy Watson (£12 million to Brighton)

Remarkably, only the traditional 'Big Six' Premier League clubs have outspent Sunderland this transfer window. This follows their promotion to the top flight via May's Championship playoff final victory over Sheffield United.

Xhaka becomes Sunderland's eighth summer signing, joining:

• Enzo Le Fee (Rennes)
• Habib Diarra (Strasbourg)
• Noah Sadiki (Anderlecht)
• Reinildo Mandava (Lille)
• Chemsdine Talbi (Lorient)
• Simon Adingra (Brighton)