Fakayejo Paul
Sunderland, UK – Sunderland AFC have officially confirmed the signing of Swiss international midfielder Granit Xhaka from Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen.
The move sees the former Arsenal captain return to the Premier League on a three-year deal.
While initial reports suggested a €20 million package, Sky Sports News understands the fee is in the region of £17 million (€20 million), costing Sunderland an initial £13 million with up to £4 million in add-ons.
This represents a significant investment for the newly-promoted Black Cats and a major statement of intent in the transfer market.
Xhaka, aged 32, arrives on Wearside after a highly successful two-year spell at Bayer Leverkusen, where he was a pivotal figure in Xabi Alonso’s side that famously won their first-ever Bundesliga title and the DFB-Pokal in 2024.
He made 99 appearances for Leverkusen, scoring six goals and providing nine assists.
Before his time in Germany, Xhaka spent seven years at Arsenal, making 297 appearances and winning two FA Cups. His extensive Premier League experience, leadership qualities, and proven ability at the highest level are expected to provide an invaluable boost to Régis Le Bris’s squad as they aim to establish themselves in the top flight.
Xhaka told the club’s official website: “I’m very proud to be here. I’m excited to embark on this new chapter in my career and contribute to Sunderland’s ambitious goals.”
The midfielder will wear the number 34 shirt for Sunderland. His signing adds to a busy summer for the Black Cats, who have already made several high-profile additions as they look to build a squad capable of securing Premier League survival.