Sunderland are planning a shock move for former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka, though they face competition from Saudi Arabia.
MUNICH, GERMANY: Jamal Musiala of Bayern Munich (R) is challenged by Granit Xhaka of Bayer 04 Leverkusen during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 first leg match between FC Bayern München and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at Allianz Arena on March 05, 2025. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images
Keith Downie reports for Sky Sports News that Sunderland hold a genuine interest in Granit Xhaka, and they’re plotting an ambitious move for the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder.
Sunderland will reportedly face competition from Saudi Arabia, but they have a clear ambition to add Xhaka to spearhead their return to the Premier League. They’re currently exploring that possibility.
Sky add that though Xhaka has three years remaining on his Leverkusen deal, he could be allowed to leave this summer.
ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS: Florian Wirtz and Granit Xhaka of Bayer 04 Leverkusen react following the team's victory during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD1 match between Feyenoord and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at De Kuip on September 19, 2024. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images
On the Saudi Arabian interest, Fabrizio Romano reports that Saudi Pro League side NEOM have sent an official bid for Xhaka, as well as making the player a “huge proposal”.
Negotiations are reportedly underway to potentially add Xhaka to a squad that already contains former Gunner Alexandre Lacazette. The French international signed for NEOM earlier this summer after his contract with Lyon expired.
Alexandre Lacazette signs for NEOM S.C. (Photo via NEOMSportsClub on Twitter)
Photo via NEOMSportsClub on Twitter
Sacha Tavolieri initially broke the news of Sunderland’s interest in Xhaka, with talks over a €10m deal and a three-year contract offer on the table.
Xhaka spent seven years in the Premier League with Arsenal, but he’s spent the last couple of seasons in Germany since his 2023 departure. He could now be on the verge of an unexpected comeback.
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