Granit Xhaka’s Premier League Comeback: Sunderland Is Expected to Form a Significant Midfield Partnership Xhaka Selects Sunderland Over Saudi Arabia and Turkey
Granit Xhaka is about to make a spectacular comeback to the Premier League, as the Swiss international is expected to return to English football with newly promoted Sunderland. The 32-year-old midfielder has already signed to terms with the Black Cats, according to The Times, and Sunderland is currently discussing a transfer cost with Bayer Leverkusen.
Jose Noguera, Xhaka’s agent, stated, “We have reached an agreement in principle with Sunderland.” “Granit desires to play in the Premier League again. He wants to take on this challenge because Sunderland thrills him. We hope the clubs can quickly come to an agreement and that Leverkusen will honor his desire to go.
Leverkusen is reportedly requesting £15 million, which is fair given Xhaka’s crucial contribution to Xabi Alonso’s undefeated Bundesliga-winning team from the previous campaign. The article claims that Sunderland has previously had a cheaper bid turned down.
A Statement Signing for Régis Le Bris
For Sunderland and manager Régis Le Bris, Xhaka would be a big-name acquisition that would show the team’s intention to do more than just make it in the top division. Sunderland has acted swiftly to strengthen their team after securing promotion with a thrilling victory in the play-off final last season, thanks to a late goal from Tommy Watson.
Xhaka, who played 99 games for Leverkusen in two seasons, would bring leadership and crucial experience to a midfield that just lost Jobe Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund. He is anticipated to fill the void left by Bellingham’s departure by assuming a deep-lying playmaking role.
Already, Sunderland’s summer business has drawn criticism. A strong recruitment strategy is evident in the addition of Habib Diarra, Simon Adingra, Chemsdine Talbi, Reinildo, and Noah Sadiki, all of whom are obviously trying to solidify their Premier League standing.
Their project is elevated when Xhaka is included in that mix. He won two FA Cups and made around 300 games during his seven years with Arsenal. This isn’t merely a temporary move; it’s a strong indication of the Wearside club’s ambition, as a three-year contract is apparently on the table.
Veteran Leadership and Winning Mentality
Xhaka adds something unique to Sunderland’s pool of young, talented players: a track record of success at the highest level. His contribution to Leverkusen’s undefeated league campaign highlights his tactical acumen and poise, which will be crucial as Sunderland navigates their first Premier League season since 2017.
This might end up being one of the more notable summer acquisitions if Sunderland can bridge the gap with Leverkusen.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From the standpoint of a Sunderland supporter, this is an absolutely fantastic move. It feels validated to see a player of Xhaka’s caliber pick Sunderland over rich Saudi and Turkish offers after years in the Championship wilderness and a valiant promotion through the play-offs. This is shrewd, calculated business, not merely sentimentality or romanticism.
Although Xhaka’s tenure at Arsenal was divisive, nobody questioned his technical prowess or professionalism. His renaissance at Leverkusen under Xabi Alonso demonstrated to the world his potential when used effectively, controlling the pace, winning duels, and making a statement in the middle of the midfield. That’s exactly what Sunderland’s youth team needs.
The club’s larger summer window is also generating optimism. The addition of more vibrant, dynamic players like Diarra and Talbi is complemented by Xhaka. This is a part of a larger scheme, not a one-time vanity signing. On the field, Xhaka might be the link that keeps Régis Le Bris’ vision together.
There is a sincere sense that Sunderland can do more than merely stay up, despite the fact that supporters will understandably be wary of the move up with Xhaka anchored in the midfield. They have the capacity to develop and possibly flourish.
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