Sunderland agree deal to sign former Arsenal star Granit Xhaka in blockbuster Black Cats transfer

Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 28/07/2025

- 12:40

Sunderland have had an ambitious summer this year after returning to the Premier League

Sunderland have reached an agreement with Bayer Leverkusen for the transfer of former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka, with the deal valued at approximately £17 million.

The fee structure comprises an initial payment of £13 million, supplemented by potential add-ons worth up to £4 million.


The 32-year-old Switzerland international has received authorisation from the German club to travel to the United Kingdom for medical examinations.

This development marks the culmination of negotiations between the two clubs, with Sunderland raising their initial proposal by £7 million to satisfy Leverkusen's demands.

Granit Xhaka

Granit Xhaka looks set to sign for Sunderland in a shock deal

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Reuters

The Bundesliga champions had established a firm stance on their valuation, with sporting director Simon Rolfes stating: "A decision will be made this week.

"Granit's side is aware of the conditions under which a transfer is possible. If that doesn't happen, he'll stay."

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Personal terms between Xhaka and the Black Cats were finalised last week, paving the way for a three-year contract at the Stadium of Light.

The veteran midfielder had expressed his desire to return to the Premier League, making his intentions clear to the German champions.

Sunderland's persistence in pursuing the Swiss international saw them significantly enhance their proposal to meet Leverkusen's €20 million valuation.

The northeastern club's willingness to restructure their offer demonstrates their commitment to securing experienced quality for their top-flight campaign.

Leverkusen manager Erik ten Hag had previously expressed reluctance to lose another key player, declaring: "His agent can say whatever he likes, but this club has lost three important players and we won't lose more.

"It's not on. It would disrupt the structure but above all the culture of the squad. Granit is a leader."

The Swiss midfielder brings considerable pedigree from his time in England and Germany, having earned 137 international caps for his country.

During his Arsenal tenure, he served as club captain and remained a consistent selection under multiple managers including Arsene Wenger and Mikel Arteta, despite experiencing turbulent moments with supporters that led to Unai Emery removing his captaincy.

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Granit Xhaka

Granit Xhaka wanted to leave Leverkusen this summer for Sunderland

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Reuters

His subsequent move to Germany proved highly successful, as he played an instrumental role in Bayer Leverkusen's domestic double triumph during his debut season.

Last campaign showcased his enduring quality, with only Bayern Munich's Joshua Kimmich surpassing his statistics for open-play passes and final-third deliveries in the Bundesliga.

The midfielder maintained a 90 per cent passing accuracy rate, demonstrating the precision and reliability that characterised his performances for both Arsenal and Leverkusen.

Xhaka's arrival forms part of Sunderland's ambitious recruitment strategy following their Premier League return, with the club having already secured permanent deals for Enzo Le Fee, Habib Diarra, Noah Sadiki, Simon Adingra, Chemsdine Talbi and Reinildo Mandava.

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Granit Xhaka

Granit Xhaka spent seven years at Arsenal

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PA

Manager Regis Le Bris continues to pursue additional targets as the Black Cats prepare for the challenges of top-flight football.

The experienced midfielder's signing represents a significant coup for the newly-promoted side, offering crucial leadership qualities alongside his technical abilities.

His presence could prove vital in Sunderland's battle to maintain their Premier League status, providing the stability and composure that helped drive success at his previous clubs.

The Swiss international's ability to control matches through his passing range and positional discipline addresses a key requirement for sides facing relegation battles.