Sunderland Strengthens Squad With Granit Xhaka Signing From Bayer Leverkusen

Add as a preferred source on Google

Sunderland have successfully signed Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported fee of £17.3 million (€20 million). The 32-year-old midfielder has agreed to a three-year contract, bringing his Premier League experience and leadership to the newly promoted team. Xhaka, who previously captained Arsenal, joined Bayer Leverkusen in 2023.

Xhaka played a crucial role in Bayer Leverkusen's success under Xabi Alonso during the 2023-24 season. The team remained unbeaten domestically and secured both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles. Sunderland reportedly paid an initial fee of around £13 million, with potential add-ons amounting to £4.3 million, to acquire the Swiss international's services.

With Xhaka's arrival, Sunderland have now added four new midfielders this transfer window. Enzo Le Fee, Habib Diarra, and Noah Sadiki had already joined the club earlier. This influx of talent aims to strengthen Sunderland's squad as they prepare for their return to the Premier League.

Upon joining Sunderland, Xhaka expressed his enthusiasm: "I'm very proud to be here. When I spoke to the club, I was excited, and I felt the energy and the mentality that all the people and players have. It's exactly what I wanted, and I have a very good feeling."

Xhaka believes he can contribute significantly with his experience and quality. He stated: "We are back to where this club needs to be, and we want to stay here to write our own history. I feel that I'm ready to help the team with my experience, but with quality as well."

Upcoming Matches for Sunderland

Sunderland will kick off their Premier League campaign against West Ham at the Stadium of Light on August 16. Before that, Xhaka might make his debut in a friendly match against Real Betis on Saturday.

Xhaka is optimistic about integrating into the team quickly: "We need to find ourselves on the pitch, but I don't think this will be a big problem. It's been a long time to wait, but I'm here now, and I'm looking forward to it."