Former Arsenal star Granit Xhaka has reportedly been targeted for a Premier League return this summer.
The Swiss midfielder left Arsenal in the summer of 2023, joining Bayer Leverkusen in a £21.4million move.
Xhaka’s time with the Gunners had been mixed, despite winning two FA Cups and playing a central role under three different managers.
He had notably clashed with supporters during his seven years at the club, with the midfielder stripped of the club captaincy after reacting angrily when he was booed off in a match in 2019.
The midfielder, now 32, has enjoyed a successful spell in the Bundesliga with Leverkusen.
Xhaka was a key part of the team under Xabi Alonso that earned the club’s maiden Bundesliga title, which included scoring in their final day victory to complete an invincible league season.
Sunderland are reportedly targeting a move for former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka
Xhaka was part of the Bayer Leverkusen side to win the Bundesliga in the 2024-25 season
He also lifted the German Cup in the same season, while Leverkusen finished as runners-up in the Europa League.
Xhaka’s future is in doubt this summer, with newly promoted Sunderland reportedly considering an ambitious move to sign him, according to Sky Sports.
The Black Cats reportedly want Xhaka to lead the club on their Premier League return, with his experience viewed as a key to helping their fight for survival.
Sunderland are expected to face competition from Saudi Arabian clubs to sign Xhaka, who has three years remaining on his Leverkusen contract.
Saudi Pro League outfit Neom are reportedly viewed as the frontrunners to sign Xhaka if he opts to move to the lucrative league.
Leverkusen managing director for sport, Simon Rolfes, has admitted Xhaka’s future will soon be decided.
‘There is interest, but nothing has become concrete so far.
‘Of course, we’re now in the phase where we’re finalising the squad – that’s obvious.
Sunderland have been active in the window as they aim to strengthen Regis Le Bris’ squad
‘Granit plays an important role in that, which is why it certainly won’t be an issue that drags on throughout the entire transfer window.
‘There will still be some changes in the squad overall. But at some point, the squad has to be 95 percent complete and Granit is an important part of that. So there will definitely be a decision sooner rather than later.
Sunderland have already invested heavily as they look to bolster Regis Le Bris’ squad for the Premier League.
The Black Cats have already signed Habib Diarra from Strasbourg for £30m and wingers Chemsdine Talbi and Simon Adingra for £19.5m and £21m, respectively.
Noah Sadiki joined from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise for £17.5m, while full back Reinildo signed on a free transfer from Atletico Madrid.
