Granit Xhaka offered stunning Premier League return as new boys Sunderland eye ex-Arsenal captain as Jobe Bellingham replacement

Bayer 04 Leverkusen v 1. FC Union Berlin - Bundesliga

Granit Xhaka has been offered a return to the Premier League by recently promoted Sunderland, who are interested in the former Arsenal captain.

WHAT HAPPENED?

According to Sacha Tavolieri, Sunderland have made an audacious approach for Xhaka, who is set to leave Bayer Leverkusen this summer after just two years back in Germany. The reporter claims the Black Cats are in contact with the 2023-24 Bundesliga champions over a €10 million (£8.6 million) transfer and are willing to offer the 32-year-old Switzerland international a three-year contract.

Bayer 04 Leverkusen v FC Augsburg - Bundesliga

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Sunderland aren't the only side interested in recruiting the midfielder. The former Gunner has reportedly been in talks with Saudi Arabian side Neom which would see Xhaka receive a significant pay rise, while AC Milan have been keen on him in recent months without making much progress in negotiations with Leverkusen.

DID YOU KNOW?

Sunderland were something of a surprise package last season as they won promotion to the Premier League via the Championship play-offs, but that hasn't stopped them investing heavily in their squad in anticipation of their first season back in the top flight since 2016-17. Enzo Le Fee's loan move has been made permanent, while Habib Diarra, Noah Sadiki, Reinildo Mandava, Chemsdine Talbi and Simon Adingra have all arrived at the Stadium of Light.

Bayer 04 Leverkusen v FC Bayern München - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 Second Leg

WHAT NEXT FOR XHAKA?

If Xhaka were to move to Sunderland, he would be tasked with filling the boots of Jobe Bellingham, who left the club earlier in the summer to sign for German outfit Borussia Dortmund.