Sunderland Sign Granit Xhaka from Leverkusen for £13m

Sunderland Sign Xhaka from Leverkusen in £13m Premier League Return

Granit Xhaka has completed a £13m move to Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen, marking a sensational return to the Premier League.

The Switzerland international, who previously made 297 appearances for Arsenal, joins the newly-promoted Black Cats on a three-year deal. The transfer fee could rise to £17m with add-ons.

Xhaka will wear his trademark number 34 shirt at the Stadium of Light.

“I’m very proud to be here,” Xhaka said. “When I spoke to the club, I felt the energy and the mentality — it’s exactly what I wanted. We are back where this club needs to be, and we want to stay here and write our own history.”

Return to the Premier League

After a successful spell in Germany — where Xhaka helped Leverkusen win their first-ever Bundesliga title — the 31-year-old was reportedly keen to return to English football following Xabi Alonso’s departure as head coach.

“I feel ready to help the team with my experience and quality,” Xhaka added.

Xhaka’s Career So Far

• Arsenal (2016–2023): 297 appearances, 2 FA Cups, former captain

• Bayer Leverkusen (2023–2025): Bundesliga champion in debut season

• Switzerland: Over 120 caps, regular captain

Busy Summer for Sunderland

Xhaka becomes Sunderland’s seventh summer signing, joining:

• Enzo Le Fée

• Habib Diarra

• Noah Sadiki

• Reinildo Mandava

• Chemsdine Talbi

• Simon Adingra

The move takes the club’s total summer spend past £100m, showing clear intent to establish themselves in the Premier League.