‘Xhaka closer than ever to Sunderland’ after brand-new transfer agreement
Sunderland have been linked with a shock move for Bayer Leverkusen’s Granit Xhaka this summer.
Sunderland’s transfer business has been difficult to keep track of as the Mackems continue to be seemingly linked with everyone.
The Black Cats have had a big overhaul already, kick-started by the sale of star midfielder Jobe Bellingham.
However, Régis Le Bris’ side still lack Premier League experience, although Xhaka would change that, and the midfielder is looking more likely than ever to move to Wearside after recent transfer developments.
Neil El Aynaoui’s move to Roma boosts hopes of Xhaka transfer
Sunderland had been linked with midfielder Neil El Aynaoui.
However, as reported by Fabrizio Romano via X (18 July), the Moroccan midfielder is set to join AS Roma in a deal worth £21.6million, and will travel for a medical on Saturday (19 July).
Despite the Black Cats being credited with interest in the RC Lens midfielder, they never seemed to show much intent on signing the 24-year-old.
With his move to Roma now close, it puts to rest any hopes of signing El Aynaoui, but opens up a door elsewhere.
| Granit Xhaka | Premier League (2016-2023) |
| Appearances | 225 |
| Goals | 17 |
| Assists | 24 |
The Mackems can now go all in to sign Xhaka.
Le Bris’ side will have to be quick should they follow up on their initial interest, with Saudi Arabian side NEOM SC showing increased interest in the 32-year-old.
Sunderland owner Kyril Louis Dreyfus has reportedly been in talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a deal worth around £8.5million, and Sunderland’s decision to pass up on midfielder El Aynaoui perhaps suggests that a move for Xhaka is closer than ever.
Xhaka could be the final piece to Sunderland’s midfield
Should Sunderland manage to convince Xhaka to return to the Premier League, they would be adding much-needed experience, which would aid their battle to stay up.
The former Arsenal captain is a natural leader, an element that the Mackems’ current signings arguably lack, and he would also add depth to their midfield.
Le Bris’ side are shaping up nicely in the transfer window and look a real force going into their first Premier League campaign in eight years, but some supporters are still worried by their lack of top-flight experience in the side.
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