In a transfer that has sent shockwaves through English football, Granit Xhaka has completed his highly anticipated move to Sunderland in a deal worth £17 million. The Swiss international midfielder, who captivated fans during his time at Arsenal and helped Bayer Leverkusen achieve domestic glory, represents the Championship club’s most ambitious signing as they prepare for their Premier League return campaign.
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The Deal That Changed Everything
Granit Xhaka‘s journey to the Stadium of Light represents one of the most significant transfers in Sunderland‘s recent history. The Black Cats have successfully negotiated a complex deal with Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, securing the services of the 32-year-old midfielder until 2027.
The transfer package, structured at £17 million, includes an initial payment of £13 million with performance-related add-ons potentially reaching £4 million. This substantial investment demonstrates Sunderland‘s serious intentions as they prepare for life back in the Premier League after their Championship triumph.
Sky Sports News confirmed that personal terms were agreed last week, with Granit Xhaka set to undergo his medical examination at the club’s training facility. The Switzerland international will bring invaluable Premier League experience to a squad that successfully navigated the Championship but now faces the ultimate test of top-flight football.
Why Xhaka Chose Sunderland
The decision to join Sunderland wasn’t taken lightly by Granit Xhaka. Despite interest from several European clubs, the midfielder was attracted by the project at the Stadium of Light and the club’s ambitious plans for Premier League survival and beyond.
Having spent successful spells at Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen, Granit Xhaka brings a wealth of experience that could prove crucial for Sunderland‘s adaptation to Premier League football. His leadership qualities, honed during his time as Arsenal captain and his influential role in Leverkusen’s Bundesliga triumph, make him an ideal candidate to guide the young Sunderland squad.
The three-year contract reflects both parties’ commitment to building something special on Wearside. For Granit Xhaka, it represents an opportunity to showcase his talents in familiar surroundings, while Sunderland gains a proven performer with the tactical intelligence and experience necessary for Premier League survival.
Overcoming Leverkusen’s Resistance
The transfer wasn’t without its complications. Bayer Leverkusen manager Erik ten Hag had initially insisted that Granit Xhaka was untouchable, stating that the club couldn’t afford to lose another key player after departures of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Jonathan Tah.
“This club has already sold three important players,” ten Hag had declared. “We won’t let go of any more players; that’s not possible. Clearly, Granit is a leader. He’s too important for us to let go.”
However, Sunderland‘s persistence and improved financial offer ultimately convinced Leverkusen to sanction the deal. The Black Cats increased their total offer by £7 million, demonstrating their determination to secure Granit Xhaka‘s signature and complete what many consider the Championship’s transfer coup of the season.
What Xhaka Brings to Sunderland
Granit Xhaka‘s arrival at Sunderland brings multiple dimensions to their midfield setup. His statistical output from last season with Bayer Leverkusen showcases his continued effectiveness at the highest level – 33 Bundesliga appearances, two goals, and seven assists demonstrate his all-around contribution.
The Swiss international’s passing ability remains his standout attribute. Last season, only Joshua Kimmich completed more passes in open play and final-third balls than Granit Xhaka, while maintaining an impressive 90% pass accuracy rate. This level of precision and vision will be crucial as Sunderland look to establish themselves in the Premier League.
His experience spans 297 Arsenal appearances, where he scored 23 goals and provided 26 assists, proving his ability to contribute in the final third while maintaining his primary role as a deep-lying playmaker. This Premier League experience will be invaluable as Sunderland navigate their return to top-flight football.
The Leadership Factor
Beyond his technical abilities, Granit Xhaka brings something equally valuable to Sunderland – leadership. His time as Arsenal captain and his role in Leverkusen’s leadership group demonstrate his ability to guide and inspire teammates during crucial moments.
Sky Sports analyst Sam Blitz highlighted this crucial aspect: “He is the metronome in every team he plays for. His stability was vital to Bayer Leverkusen winning the league and cup double in his first season.”
For a Sunderland squad that includes several young players stepping up to Premier League level for the first time, having Granit Xhaka‘s experience and leadership presence in the dressing room could prove the difference between survival and relegation.
Sunderland’s Summer Spending Spree
The acquisition of Granit Xhaka represents the jewel in Sunderland‘s impressive summer transfer window. The club has already invested £107 million in six new signings, demonstrating their commitment to Premier League success rather than mere survival.
This level of investment reflects the club’s long-term vision and their understanding that Premier League survival requires significant financial commitment. Granit Xhaka‘s signing caps off what many consider one of the most impressive Championship-to-Premier League recruitment drives in recent memory.
The strategic approach to transfers, focusing on experienced Premier League players like Granit Xhaka while also investing in promising talent, suggests Sunderland are building for sustained success rather than short-term survival.
Tactical Impact and Formation Changes
Granit Xhaka‘s arrival will likely influence Sunderland‘s tactical approach in the Premier League. His preferred role as a deep-lying playmaker could see the team adopt a more possession-based style, utilizing his exceptional passing range and tactical intelligence.
The midfielder’s versatility allows him to operate in various systems, from a traditional 4-2-3-1 formation to more modern tactical setups. His ability to drop between the center-backs during build-up play and his range of passing make him an ideal player for teams looking to play out from the back.
For Sunderland, this could represent a significant evolution in their playing style as they transition from Championship football to Premier League competition. Granit Xhaka‘s experience in high-pressure situations will be crucial as the team adapts to facing higher-quality opposition on a weekly basis.
The Medical and Final Steps
With all parties having agreed to the transfer terms, Granit Xhaka has been granted permission to travel to England for his medical examination. This final formality represents the last hurdle before the Swiss international officially becomes a Sunderland player.
The medical process, conducted at the club’s state-of-the-art training facility, will include comprehensive fitness assessments and injury screenings. Given Granit Xhaka‘s recent consistent playing time at Bayer Leverkusen, no complications are expected, and the signing should be officially confirmed within the coming days.
Transfer Details Overview
Transfer Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Transfer Fee | £17 million total |
Initial Payment | £13 million |
Add-ons | Up to £4 million |
Contract Length | 3 years (until 2027) |
Previous Club | Bayer Leverkusen |
Player Age | 32 years old |
Position | Central Midfielder |
Granit Xhaka Career Statistics
Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Years |
---|---|---|---|---|
Arsenal | 297 | 23 | 26 | 2016-2023 |
Bayer Leverkusen | 33 (last season) | 2 | 7 | 2023-2025 |
Swiss National Team | 130+ | 13 | 15+ | 2011-present |
Read More: Morgan Gibbs-White Snubs Tottenham to Pen Record-Breaking Deal with Nottingham Forest Until 2028
FAQs
How much did Sunderland pay for Granit Xhaka?
Sunderland agreed to pay £17 million for Granit Xhaka, structured as £13 million upfront with up to £4 million in performance-related add-ons.
What position does Granit Xhaka play for Sunderland?
Granit Xhaka operates as a central midfielder, typically in a deep-lying playmaker role where he can utilize his exceptional passing range and tactical intelligence.
How long is Granit Xhaka’s contract with Sunderland?
The Swiss international has signed a three-year contract with Sunderland, keeping him at the Stadium of Light until 2027.
Why did Granit Xhaka leave Bayer Leverkusen for Sunderland?
Despite Leverkusen’s initial reluctance to sell, Sunderland’s improved offer of £17 million and Xhaka’s desire for a new challenge in the Premier League convinced all parties to complete the transfer.
What experience does Granit Xhaka bring to Sunderland?
Xhaka brings extensive Premier League experience from his time at Arsenal (297 appearances) and Champions League experience with Leverkusen, plus leadership qualities gained as Arsenal captain and Leverkusen’s leadership group member.