Sunderland are planning a shock move for former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka, though they face competition from Saudi Arabia.
Keith Downie reports for Sky Sports News that Sunderland hold a genuine interest in Granit Xhaka, and they’re plotting an ambitious move for the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder.
Sunderland will reportedly face competition from Saudi Arabia, but they have a clear ambition to add Xhaka to spearhead their return to the Premier League. They’re currently exploring that possibility.
Sky add that though Xhaka has three years remaining on his Leverkusen deal, he could be allowed to leave this summer.
On the Saudi Arabian interest, Fabrizio Romano reports that Saudi Pro League side NEOM have sent an official bid for Xhaka, as well as making the player a “huge proposal”.
Negotiations are reportedly underway to potentially add Xhaka to a squad that already contains former Gunner Alexandre Lacazette. The French international signed for NEOM earlier this summer after his contract with Lyon expired.
Sacha Tavolieri initially broke the news of Sunderland’s interest in Xhaka, with talks over a €10m deal and a three-year contract offer on the table.
Xhaka spent seven years in the Premier League with Arsenal, but he’s spent the last couple of seasons in Germany since his 2023 departure. He could now be on the verge of an unexpected comeback.