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Sunderland have confirmed the signing of Swiss international Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported fee of £17.3 million.
The former Arsenal captain has penned a three-year deal with the Premier League newcomers as they prepare for their return to top-flight football.
Now 32, Xhaka joined Leverkusen in 2023 and was instrumental in helping the German side clinch both the Bundesliga title and the German Cup during a highly successful season.
Speaking about his move, Xhaka said he felt an immediate connection with Sunderland.
“I’m extremely proud to join the club. From my first conversation, I sensed the energy and ambition here—it’s exactly what I’ve been looking for. This club is back where it belongs, and we want to create something special,” he said.
Sunderland’s sporting director, Kristjaan Speakman, hailed the signing as a major coup, praising Xhaka’s experience and leadership.
“Granit’s arrival shows the scale of our ambition. His pedigree speaks for itself, both as a player and a leader. He’s the ideal fit for the type of team we’re building,” he said.
The move marks another big statement from Sunderland during a busy summer transfer window following their promotion via the Championship play-offs in May.
Xhaka will make his Premier League return on August 16 when Sunderland kick off their campaign against West Ham at the Stadium of Light.
