‘Amazing Player’ Wants to Join Sunderland in Transfer Boost

Sunderland enjoyed a memorable 2024/25 season, achieving promotion back to the Premier League courtesy of a dramatic last-gasp winner from Tom Watson, as the Mackems defeated Sheffield United 2-1. Ahead of their return to the Premier League, Sunderland have been active in the transfer market, and according to David Ornstein, they have received a boost with the news that Granit Xhaka has informed Bayer Leverkusen that he is only interested in joining Sunderland.

Sunderland Active Ahead of 2025/26 Premier League Return

Granit Xhaka Only Interested in Sunderland Transfer

Sunderland are preparing for their return to the Premier League and have been active so far this summer, signing Habib Diarra, Simon Adingra, Enzo Lee Fée, Chemsdine Talbi, Noah Sadiki and Reinildo Mandava. One player linked with a move to The Stadium of Light is Granit Xhaka, and now the 32-year-old Swiss international has boosted the Premier League new boys by informing his current club he only wants to join the Premier League new boys.

Ornstein further reveals that club-to-club negotiations are ongoing, but the player is ready to move and wants the deal closed rapidly.

Qualities of Granit Xhaka

When teams are promoted to the Premier League and subsequently struggle, it’s often due to a lack of experience. Xhaka, however, would provide it in abundance. He has been capped 137 times by his country and made 297 appearances for Arsenal. Bukayo Saka once described him as an “amazing player,” and the qualities he possesses saw him become a vital component for many clubs he played for, including Bayer Leverkusen, winning the Bundesliga and German Super Cup.

He’s a strong passer of the ball, who will bring leadership and calmness to the midfield for manager Régis Le Bris. Xhaka is not afraid of the physical side and adds a combative element to the Sunderland midfield, which will be vital. It seems a matter of when and not if, regarding this transfer. Xhaka could prove key in helping Sunderland make their mark in the Premier League.