Nov 28, 2022; Doha, Qatar; Switzerland midfielder Granit Xhaka (10) moves the ball against Brazil forward Gabriel Jesus (18) in the second half of a group stage match during the 2022 World Cup at Stadium 974. Mandatory Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports

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Granit Xhaka Pushes for Sunderland Switch as Talks Progress With Leverkusen

Granit Xhaka has formally communicated his desire to leave Bayer Leverkusen and join Premier League newcomers Sunderland, with negotiations between the clubs now intensifying over a potential summer transfer.

🚨 Bayer Leverkusen coach Erik ten Hag: “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”, told RP. pic.twitter.com/fLywcjBlM9
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 22, 2025

The 32-year-old Swiss midfielder has already agreed personal terms with Sunderland and has made it clear to Leverkusen that the Stadium of Light is his preferred destination. Xhaka has asked the Bundesliga club to expedite the deal as talks continue in search of a breakthrough.

Sunderland’s Midfield Revolution Continues With Xhaka

Sunderland, returning to the Premier League after winning the Championship play-off final, have wasted no time bolstering their squad. The Black Cats have already secured the signings of Habib Diarra, Simon Adingra, Chemsdine Talbi, Reinildo, and Noah Sadiki.

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Despite Diarra and Sadiki offering depth in central areas, the club are determined to replace Jobe Bellingham — who joined Borussia Dortmund earlier this summer — with a seasoned leader like Xhaka. His arrival would add experience and steel to Regis Le Bris’ side as they prepare for life back in the top flight.

Leverkusen Face Major Summer Shake-Up

Xhaka’s potential departure would mark another significant exit for Leverkusen following their historic Bundesliga triumph in 2023/24. Florian Wirtz joined Liverpool in a club-record move, while Jeremie Frimpong also headed to Anfield after his release clause was triggered.

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The club, now under the stewardship of Erik ten Hag following Xabi Alonso’s exit to Real Madrid, could see a further shift in dynamics if Xhaka — a key dressing-room figure with 99 appearances in two seasons — completes his move.

Xhaka spent seven years at Arsenal before moving to Leverkusen, where he played a pivotal role in their title-winning campaign. Now, he appears ready to take on one final Premier League challenge with an ambitious Sunderland side on the rise.