Granit Xhaka
Sunderland is reportedly on the verge of securing the services of Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen. The former Sunderland manager, Martin O’Neill, has weighed in on the potential acquisition, highlighting the Swiss international’s experience as a crucial asset for the Black Cats in their fight for Premier League survival. After a lengthy negotiation period, Sunderland and Leverkusen have reached an agreement, allowing the 32-year-old midfielder to travel to Wearside for a medical and to finalize the deal. The initial transfer fee is set at £13 million, with an additional £4.3 million in potential add-ons. Leverkusen, firm on their £17.3 million asking price, showed flexibility in the financial structure, enabling the deal to move forward.
Martin O’Neill said: “I thought, although he did fine at Arsenal – even towards the end, remember he fell out with the fans – he did all of that type of stuff. [Then he redeemed himself] and had a really terrific season, the season before last – really, really good. So well done him in that aspect. Would it be good for Sunderland to get someone of that experience in? I think so… I think so, might as well do it. It’s not fantastically costly, is it? €20 million. And how old is he now at the moment? 32, right. It is [quite a lot of money] for a 32-year-old. Listen, Sunderland needs some players in the football club. They’re a great, really terrific football club, but no question about it, they would wouldn’t be strong enough with the present team that they would have.”
Simon Jordan added: “I think Leeds and Burnley have a chance and I think it depends what business Sunderland do. I want to see this manager because I think you’ve got to give a lot of credit to the Sunderland owner. I have at times said, ‘Young kid on his dad’s money’. I think that’s not true. I think the kid’s very bright. I think he knows what he wants.”
The potential signing of Granit Xhaka is seen as a strategic move by Sunderland to bolster their squad with experienced talent. Xhaka’s previous stint at Arsenal demonstrated his resilience and ability to perform under pressure, attributes that could prove invaluable for Sunderland’s campaign. The financial commitment, while significant for a player of Xhaka’s age, reflects Sunderland’s ambition to strengthen their squad and avoid relegation. The club’s owner has been praised for his strategic approach and investment in the team’s future, indicating a promising direction for Sunderland as they prepare for the challenges of the Premier League season.
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