- Former Arsenal captain Granit Xhaka signs for Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen.
- Xhaka agrees a three-year deal, with Sunderland paying an initial £13m and up to £4m in add-ons.
- The Swiss midfielder becomes the club’s seventh summer signing, taking their spending past £100m.
- Xhaka aims to bring experience and leadership as Sunderland returns to the Premier League.
Sunderland have officially completed the signing of Swiss international Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen, marking a major statement of intent as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.
The 31-year-old has signed a three-year contract at the Stadium of Light, with the Black Cats paying an initial £13 million, plus potential add-ons that could rise to £4 million.
Xhaka, who previously made 297 appearances for Arsenal and captained the side during his seven-year spell, will wear the number 34 shirt in his new chapter.
“I’m very proud to be here. When I spoke to the club, I was excited and I felt the energy, and the mentality that all the people and players have,” said Xhaka.
“It’s exactly what I wanted, and I have a very good feeling. We are back to where this club needs to be, and we want to stay here to write our history.”
After joining Bayer Leverkusen in 2023, Xhaka played a pivotal role in their historic Bundesliga title win last season, Leverkusen’s first-ever league triumph. But following the departure of manager Xabi Alonso, he made clear his desire to return to English football.
Sunderland, newly promoted to the Premier League, moved swiftly to secure his signature, adding valuable experience to a squad largely filled with youthful talent.
“I feel that I’m ready to help the team with my experience, but with quality as well,” added Xhaka.
Xhaka becomes Sunderland’s seventh signing this summer, joining Enzo Le Fée, Habib Diarra, Noah Sadiki, Reinildo Mandava, Chemsdine Talbi, and Simon Adingra.
The club has now spent over £100 million in the transfer window, signalling their ambition not just to survive but to compete in the top flight.
Xhaka’s arrival could prove crucial in giving Sunderland the steel and leadership needed to cement their Premier League status.
