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Granit Xhaka Transfer Saga: Sunderland Deal Edges Closer Amid Bayer Leverkusen Price Tag
In a surprising twist to the summer transfer window, Granit Xhaka could be heading back to the Premier League with Sunderland, as negotiations heat up despite initial resistance from Bayer Leverkusen. This development comes as the German club sets a clear valuation, potentially paving the way for the Swiss midfielder’s departure.
- Xhaka and Sunderland reach agreement
- Newly promoted club to spend big on midfielder
- Bayer Leverkusen have also set a price tag
Rising Interest in Granit Xhaka Transfer from Top Clubs
The experienced Swiss international has attracted significant attention during this transfer period, with Italian giants like AC Milan and Inter expressing strong interest in securing his services. Yet, Bayer Leverkusen initially resisted any moves, especially after parting ways with key players such as Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz to Liverpool, and Jonathan Tah to Bayern Munich. Manager Erik ten Hag publicly emphasized his desire to keep Xhaka, but recent shifts suggest the decision may no longer rest with him.
Sunderland’s Bold Move for Xhaka’s Premier League Return
Entering the fray, newly promoted Sunderland has made a compelling offer to lure Xhaka back to England’s top flight. Reports indicate a personal agreement that would boost his salary to €10 million (£8m/$11m) per year, a notable increase of €3m over his current deal at Leverkusen. As per insights from Bild, the ongoing transfer drama might resolve soon, with the Bundesliga side now open to a deal valued at approximately €20m (£17m/$23m).
Challenges in Meeting Demands and Recent Updates
Xhaka has turned down several suitors this window, including advances from AC Milan and even lucrative bids from Saudi outfit Neom. While these clubs matched his wage expectations, they fell short on Leverkusen’s fee demands. In a fresh update, with the 2024 transfer market seeing record-breaking spends-totaling over €5 billion across Europe according to recent UEFA reports-this case highlights the premium on proven midfielders like Xhaka, who contributed to 12 goals and assists in the last Bundesliga season.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Stance on Granit Xhaka Deal
Sporting director Simon Rolfes has shed light on the midfielder’s future, stating: “A resolution is expected this week. Granit’s representatives are aware of the terms for a potential move. If they aren’t met, he remains with us.” This pragmatic approach marks a departure from earlier reluctance, possibly influenced by the need to balance the squad after significant outflows.
Implications for Team Strategy Post-Xhaka
Should the transfer go through, Erik ten Hag faces the challenge of reshaping his midfield without one of its cornerstone figures. Xhaka’s reliability has been vital, and his exit would prompt an urgent search for a successor. With the window closing soon and options dwindling-much like the scramble seen in Arsenal’s recent pursuit of similar profiles-Leverkusen might look to emerging talents from leagues like Serie A or the Eredivisie to fill the void, ensuring the team’s competitive edge remains intact.
