Switzerland international Granit Xhaka has signed a three-year contract with Sunderland, marking his return to the Premier League two years after leaving Arsenal for Bayer Leverkusen, the club announced on Wednesday.
Now 32, Xhaka spent seven seasons with Arsenal before moving to Germany, where he played a key role in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic 2024/25 season—helping the club win its first-ever Bundesliga title and reach the Europa League final in his debut campaign.
Although Sunderland did not disclose the transfer fee, reports in the English media suggest the newly promoted Premier League club paid around £17.3 million ($23.14 million) for the experienced midfielder.
The move comes just a week after Leverkusen manager Erik ten Hag had publicly declared Xhaka “too important” to leave, underscoring the significance of the transfer.
Speaking after the announcement, Xhaka expressed enthusiasm about his new challenge.
“I’m very proud to be here. When I spoke to the club, I was excited. I felt the energy and the mentality that everyone here—players and staff—shares,” he said.
Xhaka made 225 Premier League appearances for Arsenal and won two FA Cup titles during his time in North London.
Sunderland will kick off their Premier League return with a home match against West Ham United on August 16.
