Granit Xhaka in action for Sunderland in 2025 against Arsenal

Beşiktaş weighing up move for Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka

Adem Ozcan Last updated: May 16, 2026, 5:33 pm
0

Image: IMAGO / Action Plus

Beşiktaş are reportedly considering a summer move for Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka, with internal discussions planned before any formal approach is made.

According to Turkish outlet Sabah, Beşiktaş manager Sergen Yalçın and club president Serdal Adalı are expected to meet after the upcoming match against Çaykur Rizespor to discuss recruitment plans and assess potential transfer targets.

Xhaka is among the names expected to be discussed during those talks, with the Turkish side reportedly interested in exploring whether a deal could be realistic this summer.

The report also claims the midfielder is “eager” about the possibility of joining Beşiktaş if circumstances eventually allow a move to happen.

Sunderland likely to resist Granit Xhaka departure

While reports in Turkey suggest interest from Beşiktaş is developing, Sunderland are unlikely to welcome the idea of losing one of their most influential players.

Xhaka has become a central figure during Sunderland’s return to the Premier League and has played a major role throughout the campaign under Regis Le Bris.

Having followed Sunderland closely this season, his influence has extended well beyond statistics alone. The Swiss international has brought leadership, control and experience to a squad that has often relied heavily on his presence during difficult moments.

Granit Xhaka (2025/26) Stat
Premier League appearances 34
Available minutes played 84%
Starts 83%
Contract expiry 2028

source: club and competition data – 16 May 2026

Sunderland’s position is also strengthened by the fact there is no contractual pressure surrounding the player.

Xhaka remains tied to the club until 2028, giving the Black Cats significant control over any negotiations that could emerge.

Beşiktaş still assessing whether to proceed

At this stage, reports indicate Xhaka is not Beşiktaş’s leading transfer priority.

Instead, the Turkish club first want internal discussions with manager Sergen Yalçın before deciding whether to advance interest more seriously.

That means there remains considerable distance between admiration and an actual transfer attempt.

From the final weeks of Sunderland’s campaign, there has been little indication the club are actively preparing for a major midfield reshuffle, particularly involving their captain.

However, experienced players approaching the later stages of their careers often attract interest from leagues offering different opportunities and lifestyles.

The report also notes Xhaka is expected to spend time in Türkiye during the summer, although that alone should not automatically be viewed as evidence of negotiations.

Key Points

  • Beşiktaş are discussing a potential move for Granit Xhaka
  • Internal meetings are planned before a final decision
  • Xhaka is reportedly interested in the move
  • Sunderland want to keep their captain
  • The midfielder remains under contract until 2028

What’s next

Beşiktaş are expected to clarify transfer priorities after meetings between club officials and Sergen Yalçın in the coming days.

If the Turkish side decide to move forward, discussions with Sunderland could follow later in the summer. However, the Premier League side are expected to resist strongly unless Xhaka himself actively pushes for an exit.

Would Sunderland be making a huge mistake by allowing Granit Xhaka to leave this summer?

0 Comments

First read message

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Football Place