‘Sunderland in talks to seal sensational Granit Xhaka return’
Granit Xhaka could make a dramatic return to the Premier League as Sunderland prepare for an incredibly difficult Premier League campaign.
The 32-year-old experienced seven rollercoaster years with Arsenal between 2016 and 2023, finally ending his time in North London two summers ago as he joined Bayer Leverkusen.
With 297 appearances for the Gunners and another 137 caps for the Swiss national team, the midfielder was rewarded with the captain’s armband and finally won the fans back after a previous falling out.
Recently, Xhaka has been linked with a big-money move to the Saudi Pro League, but the Black Cats may look to bring his experience back to the Premier League for the 2025/26 campaign instead.
Stefan Borson told Football Insider that Sunderland are ready to spend £100m on signings, with the likes of Simon Adingra, Habib Diarra, and Reinildo already added, and Xhaka could make it one more.
Sunderland launch Granit Xhaka transfer hijack
Taking to X (15 July), Sky Sports Switzerland journalist Sacha Tavolieri wrote: “Sunderland have entered the race for Granit Xhaka! Bayer Leverkusen and Sunderland, through club owner Kyril Louis Dreyfus, are now in talks about a €10M [£8.7million] deal.
“They are facing competition from Neom SC, with the Black Cats trying a sensational move, offering Xhaka a three-year contract.”
Regis Le Bris aiming for Premier League safety
Football Insider verdict
Having reached the Premier League via the play-offs last season, beating Sheffield United in dramatic style, no supporter at the Stadium of Light is under the illusion that survival will be simple.
Sunderland have already lost Jobe Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund, who appeared to blossom and thrive at the Club World Cup, but the Black Cats are doing everything to ensure safety next season.
Speaking to Mackem News (15 July), France-based journalist Luke Entwistle has suggested that Sunderland hold an edge over Marseille when it comes to signing Matthis Abline.
In addition to the names mentioned earlier, Chemsdine Talbi, Noah Sadiki, and Enzo Le Fee have all been added to the squad, and fans remain hopeful over keeping Chris Rigg and Trai Hume.
Mick Brown told Football Insider that Sunderland are plotting a move for Charlie Cresswell, having only left Leeds United last year, and he would provide a decent defensive back-up.
Still, avoiding the Premier League relegation zone will be incredibly difficult for the Black Cats, but with these types of names arriving this summer, they have every chance of doing something special.