Granit Xhaka transfer agreed – Which midfielder Le Bris could axe at Sunderland
Sunderland have been making serious moves in the transfer window, but now they have arguably made their biggest statement.
The Black Cats have already spent north of £100million and have broken their transfer record twice in Enzo Le Fee and Habib Diarra.
Granit Xhaka emerged as a primary Sunderland target, although the potential fee had been a sticking point for Bayer Leverkusen.
However, it now seems that the Wearsiders have struck a deal with the Bundesliga outfit, meaning Xhaka should soon be wearing red and white stripes.
Now, Mackem News explores which midfielder Regis Le Bris could axe from his starting XI if this signing is completed.
Dan Neil to pay price for Xhaka signing
With Xhaka closing in on a move to the Stadium of Light, Neil could be the biggest loser for Sunderland.
The Black Cats’ captain has entered the final year of his contract and is yet to sign a new deal in the North East.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 197 | 12 | 20 |
Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said that Neil’s contract talks were set for this summer, but there has not been an update in some time.
Competition is fierce in central midfield, with Xhaka joining Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki in that area.
Their arrivals mean that it is becoming increasingly more difficult for the academy product to squeeze into Le Bris’ side.
The Switzerland international will almost certainly slot into Sunderland’s starting lineup, meaning Neil could cast a peripheral figure.
Neil has decision to make on Sunderland future
Given what is unfolding at the Stadium of Light, Neil must decide what he wants to do with his Sunderland future.
The academy product has been linked with Everton and West Ham in the past, so would seemingly not be short of suitors.
Alternatively, the 23-year-old may decide to fight for his place and lead his boyhood club through this next chapter.
Of course, with Xhaka arriving, one also wonders if he could be given the captaincy, given his leadership qualities and vast experience.
Furthermore, such a decision would be revealed before the Premier League season begins, which is only weeks away.
All eyes will be on Le Bris’ team selection on the opening day against West Ham, with Neil’s future becoming increasingly uncertain.
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