Granit Xhaka transfer to Sunderland in doubt as manager intervenes

The transfer of Granit Xhaka to Sunderland encounters opposition from Bayer Leverkusen's leadership.

Granit Xhaka's potential move to Sunderland faces resistance from manager

Granit Xhaka, the former Arsenal midfielder, is reportedly on the verge of a transfer to Sunderland, who have made a surprising move for the player. His agent confirmed an agreement in principle, expressing Xhaka's eagerness to return to the Premier League. However, Erik ten Hag, the manager of Bayer Leverkusen, has firmly stated that the club will not part with more key players after already selling three. He emphasized Xhaka's importance to the team and confirmed that he has three years left on his contract.

The situation highlights a tension between a player's ambitions and a club's strategic needs. While Granit Xhaka is looking to re-enter the Premier League, Leverkusen faces pressure to maintain squad stability after losing several key players. Ten Hag's strong stance reflects a deeper concern for team culture and balance. This scenario also positions Sunderland as a serious contender in the Championship, potentially increasing interest in their recruitment strategies.

Highlights

As the transfer window progresses, Xhaka's fate remains uncertain, highlighting the complexities of player movement.