Xhaka Linked to Sunderland Move; Leverkusen Determined to Retain Midfielder

Bayer Leverkusen’s coach, Erik ten Hag, has asserted that Granit Xhaka is indispensable to the team. This statement comes amid circulating reports that Xhaka may be transferring to Sunderland, according to international news sources on Wednesday.

Leverkusen has already seen significant departures, including striker Florian Wirtz and defender Jeremie Frimpong, who have joined Premier League champions Liverpool. Additionally, centre-back Jonathan Tah has reportedly signed with Bayern Munich.

Granit Xhaka, who previously played for Arsenal before joining Leverkusen, has been associated with a move to Sunderland. His representative reportedly told German media that the 32-year-old has a preliminary agreement with the newly-promoted Premier League club.

Erik Ten Hag acknowledged the agent’s statements but emphasized that the club cannot afford to lose any more players after already losing three key members.

“The agent is free to express opinions. However, our club has already been impacted by the departure of three significant players,” Ten Hag commented.

“We cannot allow additional players to leave; it is simply not an option. Doing so would negatively impact both the team’s structure and its established culture.”

“To be clear, Granit is a pivotal leader. He signed a five-year contract with us, and he still has three years remaining. He is far too crucial for us to consider letting him go.”

Xhaka was instrumental in Leverkusen’s successful 2023-24 season, where they achieved a double victory, securing their first Bundesliga title undefeated, winning the German Cup, and reaching the Europa League final.

During his 99 appearances for Leverkusen, Xhaka has tallied six goals and provided nine assists.

Former Manchester United manager Ten Hag assumed the role of Leverkusen coach following Xabi Alonso’s departure to manage Real Madrid in May.