GRANIT XHAKA could be set for a shock £10million return to the Premier League.
Leverkusen’s 32-year-old former Arsenal star is wanted by newly-promoted Sunderland to spearhead their survival fight.
Granit Xhaka has become a fan hero at Leverkusen, making 99 appearances alreadyGetty
Sunderland need Premier League experience in their ranksAlamy
And the Black Cats are willing to offer the Swiss international midfielder a three-year contract to lure him to the Stadium of Light.
Xhaka still has three years left on his deal with the German giants but could be allowed to leave this summer.
Sunderland have already splashed out £110m on six new recruits as they prepare for life back in the Prem.
And the vastly-experienced Xhaka fits the profile of player that boss Regis Le Bris hopes to bring him to help lead his young squad.
Though the North East club are facing stiff competition from Saudi Arabia to pull-off the ambitious swoop.
Xhaka spent seven years at Arsenal after signing from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2016.
He went on to lift the FA Cup twice and made almost 300 appearances for the Gunners.
The star left for Leverkusen in 2023 and was instrumental in their incredible Bundesliga and German Cup successes that season.
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He made a further 49 matches last term as they finished second to Bayern Munich.
Fans on social media were quick to react to the news – and it’s clear a lot of them haven’t forgotten about Xhaka’s fiery nature.
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The Switzerland captain was sent off five times during his time with Arsenal, and supporters think it won’t be long until it happens again.
One fan wrote: “Hands down he gets a red in the first match vs Newcastle.”
Bitter enemies Newcastle and Sunderland haven’t played each other in the league since 2016, but every clash between the North East giants guarantees drama.
They did play against each other in the FA Cup third round in 2024, with Newcastle winning 3-0 at the Stadium of Light – and it was clear both clubs were ready to reignite the rivalry.
And a replacement for Jobe BellinghamGetty
Fans think he’ll be a perfect fit for the Tyne-Wear derbyReuters
The Tyne and Wear derby will resume on December 13 at Sunderland, with the reverse fixture set for March 21.
Sunderland lost midfielder Jobe Bellingham this summer to Borussia Dortmund, and will no doubt be looking to reinstill that star quality in the squad.
Xhaka will also offer the Premier League experience their young squad needs.
The 32-year-old made 297 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 23 goals and assisting 29.
Meanwhile, Sunderland are also targeting a move for Bologna’s Colombian international defender Jhon Lucumi.
The 27-year-old, who has a £24m release clause but Roma are also weighing up a potential offer.
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