Martin O’Neill makes Sunderland relegation admission after Xhaka transfer news
Granit Xhaka looks set to become the seventh addition at Sunderland this summer.
The Black Cats face Hull City in a pre-season friendly tonight, and there is every chance a new face will be among the spectators.
That is because Sunderland have agreed a deal to sign Xhaka from Leverkusen, in a package deal believed to be worth around £17million.
Xhaka was part of Leverkusen’s invincibles just two seasons ago, and he looks set to make a swift return to the Premier League.
Xhaka arrived in Sunderland ahead of Tuesday medical
Xhaka was spotted on a private jet on his way to Wearside last night, with the deal expected to go through within the next 24 hours if all things go as planned.
His arrival will provide a much-needed injection of experience into the Sunderland midfield, as well as some serious ability.
His arrival has already raised eyebrows among other fans in the Premier League, with Martin O’Neill discussing the transfer live on talkSPORT (28 July).
O’Neill believes that without the eye-catching signings, including that of Xhaka, Sunderland simply would not be in a position to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
He said: “Although he did fine at Arsenal, even towards the end, remember, he fell out with the fans, he did all of that type of stuff. And then he redeemed himself, didn’t he?
“And had a really terrific season, the season before last. He was really, really good. So well done to him in that aspect.
“Would it be good for Sunderland to get someone of that experience in? I think so. I think so. Might as well do it. It’s not fantastically costly, is it? £17million?
“Listen, Sunderland need some players in the football club. They’re a really terrific football club, but no question about it, they wouldn’t be strong enough with the present team that they would have. So any bits of experience, I’m sure, would help.”
Sunderland still need more after Xhaka
It is crucial that the Wearsiders bring in some quality defensive targets over the next few weeks, with the attack also in need of more.
However, if there has ever been a time to lay your faith in the board to deliver what is needed, it is certainly this summer.
Some serious ambition has been shown by the hierarchy at the Stadium of Light, and long may that continue ahead of their return to the Premier League in August.
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