Granit Xhaka's Potential Sunderland Move Faces Hurdles Amid Manager's Stance

In recent developments surrounding the Premier League transfer market, Granit Xhaka, the former Arsenal midfielder, is reportedly considering a move to newly-promoted Sunderland. This potential transfer, however, has been met with resistance from Bayer Leverkusen's manager, Erik ten Hag, who has publicly stated his intention to retain the Swiss international within the squad.

Granit Xhaka, who departed Arsenal in the summer of 2023 after a notable seven-year tenure, has been enjoying a successful stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he contributed to an unbeaten Bundesliga season and the German Cup title in his first year. With Sunderland's recent interest, which has been confirmed by Xhaka's agent, Jose Noguera, the player is intrigued by the prospect of returning to the Premier League. Noguera stated, "We’ve reached an agreement in principle with Sunderland. Granit wants to return to the Premier League. Sunderland excites him – he wants to take on this challenge. We hope Leverkusen will respect his wish to leave and that the clubs will find an agreement soon" (Sky Germany, Florian Plettenberg, 2025).

Despite the interest from Sunderland, Erik ten Hag has made it clear that the club will not allow further player departures, particularly after losing three key players already. In a press conference, Ten Hag emphasized Xhaka's importance to the team, saying, "The agent can say anything, but this club has already sold three important players. We won’t let go of any more players; that’s not possible. Granit is a leader. He signed for five years and has three years left on his contract. He’s too important for us to let go" (BILD, 2025).

Leverkusen's sporting director, Simon Rolfes, reinforced Ten Hag's sentiments, asserting that Xhaka plays a crucial leadership role within the team and that discussions surrounding his potential transfer are not unexpected but are also being handled with care. Rolfes remarked, "I’ve always said that Granit is an important leader. The coach and I have a very similar perspective" (BILD, 2025).

Should Xhaka complete his transfer to Sunderland, he would face his former club, Arsenal, in two matches during the upcoming Premier League season, marking a significant return for the midfielder. The first encounter is scheduled for November 8, 2025, at the Stadium of Light, with the reverse fixture planned for February 8, 2026, at the Emirates Stadium.

The ongoing saga illustrates the complexities involved in player transfers, particularly as clubs navigate their squad needs and financial constraints following a challenging previous season. Sunderland's ambition to strengthen their team with experienced players like Xhaka reflects a broader trend within the Premier League, where newly-promoted teams are increasingly seeking to secure seasoned professionals to bolster their competitive edge.

As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen whether an agreement can be reached between Sunderland and Bayer Leverkusen, or if Ten Hag's resolve will ultimately keep Xhaka in Germany. The unfolding situation serves as a reminder of the intricate balance clubs must maintain between player retention and acquisition, particularly in a highly competitive league like the Premier League.