Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Granit Xhaka is set to join Sunderland after a €20m (£17.5m) fee was agreed with Bayer Leverkusen. A medical is imminent.
Sunderland have made a huge breakthrough in the summer transfer window — agreeing a deal to sign Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen. the Swiss international is set to earn around £90,000 per week at the Stadium of Light — making him one of the club’s highest-paid players.
The 32-year-old midfielder is set to fly into the UK for a medical after both clubs finalised terms over the weekend. According to Fabrizio Romano, the fee is worth €20 million (£17.5m) and Xhaka has accepted a two-year deal running until 2027.
This marks one of the most ambitious signings in Sunderland’s recent history as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.
Why Granit Xhaka Chose Sunderland
Sunderland had submitted an earlier offer which was rejected, but Xhaka himself was keen to make the move. Leverkusen, who initially held out, gave the green light after Sunderland matched their final asking price.
Xhaka, who featured regularly in Leverkusen’s title-winning 2023/24 side, brings elite experience to the Stadium of Light — including stints at Arsenal and Borussia Mönchengladbach.
“Granit Xhaka to Sunderland, here we go! Deal agreed between all parties involved,” said Fabrizio Romano on X. — Fabrizio Romano
What Régis Le Bris Said About Transfers
After Sunderland’s 2-1 defeat to Hearts in pre-season, head coach Régis Le Bris made it clear that reinforcements were on the way:
“If you look at the Hearts game, then it looks as though we are far away from where we need to be. That is clear… we are not naïve and we know we have to reinforce this squad to be stronger.”
Granit Xhaka – Career Snapshot
| Stat | Granit Xhaka |
|---|---|
| Age | 32 |
| Position | Central Midfield |
| National Team | Switzerland (124 caps) |
| Club Career | Basel, Gladbach, Arsenal, Leverkusen |
| Premier League Appearances | 225 |
| Major Honours | FA Cup (x2), Bundesliga (x1) |
Analyst Verdict
Xhaka is a statement signing. He offers leadership, aggression, and experience in big matches — all crucial qualities for a newly promoted side. Sunderland are showing serious intent to stay in the Premier League, and this move underlines that ambition. His arrival will instantly raise standards in the dressing room.
Key Insights
- Sunderland have agreed a £17.5m fee for Granit Xhaka
- The midfielder signs until 2027 and flies in for a medical today
- Leverkusen were holding out for €20m — now accepted
- Xhaka was eager to return to England and pushed for the move
- Régis Le Bris confirms the squad still needs major reinforcements
What’s Next for Sunderland?
Xhaka’s medical is expected to take place in the next 24 hours. If all goes to plan, an official club announcement will follow shortly. The Black Cats are also exploring further midfield and attacking additions before the window closes.
Is Granit Xhaka the leader Sunderland need to survive in the Premier League — or is this a risky £17.5m move?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 28 Jul 2025 12:13
Good signing! Only 32, thought he was older - it's going to be a fun team to watch.
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