Sunderland Nears Deal for Granit Xhaka Premier League Return

Granit Xhaka, the 32-year-old Swiss midfielder and former Arsenal captain, is close to returning to the Premier League after agreeing personal terms with newly promoted Sunderland. Xhaka, who left Arsenal in 2023 for Bayer Leverkusen, has expressed a strong desire to rejoin English football and take on the challenge with Sunderland, who are negotiating a transfer fee with Leverkusen. Despite having three years left on his contract and being a key player for Leverkusen, Xhaka's agent confirmed the player's wish to move and hopes an agreement between the clubs will be reached soon. Sunderland's ambition is highlighted by their recent high-value signings and their goal to avoid relegation after promotion. If the transfer goes through, Xhaka will face his former club Arsenal in the Premier League, marking a notable reunion. Leverkusen's management has indicated that any deal must be mutually beneficial, complicating but not halting the negotiations.