adminAmong the trio promoted from the Championship last season, Sunderland may be the best positioned to secure Premier League survival—if their busy summer transfer window is anything to go by.
While Leeds United have made headlines with their £12 million capture of Sean Longstaff from Newcastle, Sunderland’s spending spree has been on another level. Aside from Reinildo, who joined on a free from Atletico Madrid, the Black Cats have spent over £12 million on every signing so far, and their activity in the market shows no signs of slowing down.
Sunderland continue to push for more reinforcements.
Since their triumphant return to the Premier League, Sunderland have shown serious ambition. They understand the urgency of strengthening quickly to give themselves the best chance of avoiding relegation.
Unlike Leeds, who have already brought in top-flight experience through Longstaff, Sunderland haven’t yet added proven Premier League talent—though that might be about to change. According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, the club has reached a verbal agreement with Bayer Leverkusen to sign former Arsenal star Granit Xhaka.
The deal, which would keep Xhaka at the Stadium of Light until 2028, is currently being negotiated. One potential hurdle is the reported £17 million asking price for the Swiss international.
However, journalist Keith Downie reports that Sunderland are actually “close to completing a deal.”
Could Xhaka become Le Bris’ next Le Fée?
Xhaka could be another marquee addition for manager Régis Le Bris, echoing last summer’s impressive signing of Enzo Le Fée. The French midfielder adapted quickly and played a key role in Sunderland’s promotion campaign, notching one goal and three assists in 18 appearances—including two decisive contributions during the tense playoff run.
Similarly, Xhaka brings big-game experience and leadership. During his time with Arsenal, he made 297 appearances—225 of those in the Premier League—and helped the team win two FA Cups. Known for his physicality and presence in midfield, Xhaka has proven himself on the biggest stages.
His Premier League record includes 1001 duels and 368 tackles—numbers that earned him the “monster” label from Arsenal writer Connor Humm.
That intensity hasn’t diminished in the Bundesliga either. Over his last two seasons with Leverkusen, Xhaka has continued to deliver strong performances, showing he remains at the top of his game. With a combined 67 goals and assists from 396 career club appearances for Arsenal and Leverkusen, he also offers creative flair when needed.
Football journalist Henry Winter even described Sunderland’s potential signing of Xhaka as “inspired,” suggesting he could be a crucial piece in the puzzle as the Black Cats aim to thrive in the Premier League.
Godwin Obaje
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