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Sunderland targets Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen

Sunderland remains in talks for Granit Xhaka despite resistance from Leverkusen's management.

July 23, 2025 at 07:43 AM
blur Sunderland receive Bayer Leverkusen response on Granit Xhaka

Sunderland is in negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen for Granit Xhaka amid resistance from the club.

Sunderland faces challenge in pursuing Granit Xhaka transfer

Sunderland officials are actively discussing a potential transfer for Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen, following an initial bid that was rejected. Despite interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey, Xhaka has shown a strong desire to move to Sunderland this summer. His agent announced that an agreement in principle was in place, urging Leverkusen to allow the transfer. Xhaka is believed to have settled on a three-year deal, but Leverkusen's demanding price of around €15 million remains a hurdle. Leverkusen's manager Erik ten Hag has expressed a firm stance against selling key players this summer, highlighting the departures already faced by the club. He considers Xhaka a vital asset due to his leadership and experience, citing his remaining contract as a significant factor. Sunderland is also looking to strengthen its squad following injuries to key players.

Key Takeaways

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Sunderland is negotiating for Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen.
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Xhaka has expressed his desire to join Sunderland this summer.
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Leverkusen's asking price stands at around €15 million.
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Erik ten Hag wants to keep Xhaka amidst other player departures.
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Sunderland has plans to strengthen their attack after recent injuries.
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The club’s aspirations might conflict with financial limitations.

"Granit is a key player, he signed here for five years and still has three years left on his contract."

Erik ten Hag emphasizes Xhaka's importance to Bayer Leverkusen amid transfer talks.

"His agent can say whatever he wants, but we won’t let any more go."

Ten Hag makes it clear that Leverkusen will not part with more key players this season.

"We will have to reinforce this part of the squad."

Sunderland's head coach responds to the need for additional players after injuries.

The pursuit of Granit Xhaka by Sunderland illustrates the complexities of football transfers in the current climate. Xhaka's desire to join Sunderland contrasts sharply with Leverkusen's defensive strategy to retain core players. Erik ten Hag is rightly concerned about stability, yet Sunderland's growing ambitions make this deal enticing. Xhaka’s experience could be valuable for a club aiming for higher performance in the Premier League. However, the financial expectations may challenge Sunderland’s plans, forcing them to reconsider their budget.

Highlights

  • Sunderland's ambitions clash with Leverkusen's intentions.
  • Xhaka's leadership could reshape Sunderland's future.
  • Negotiations reveal the challenges of the transfer market.
  • Erik ten Hag aims to keep his squad intact.

Challenges in Granit Xhaka transfer negotiations

The negotiations for Xhaka highlight potential budget constraints and internal pressures for both Sunderland and Leverkusen. Ten Hag's strong refusal to sell raises the risk of public backlash if expectations are not met.

The outcome of this transfer saga will determine both clubs' strategies moving forward.

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