Former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka has returned to the Premier League, becoming a member of Sunderland on a three-year deal.
Picture by way of SAFC.com
Sunderland have confirmed the signing of from Bayer Leverkusen, saying that the midfielder has signed a three-year contract to 2028.
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“I’m very proud to be right here,” Xhaka . “After I spoke to the Membership, I used to be excited and I felt the power, and the mentality that every one the individuals and gamers have. It’s precisely what I wished, and I’ve an excellent feeling.
“We’re again to the place this Membership must be, and we wish to keep right here to jot down our personal historical past. I really feel that I’m prepared to assist the crew with my expertise however with high quality as effectively.
“We have to discover ourselves on the pitch, however I don’t suppose this shall be a giant drawback. It’s been a very long time to attend, however I’m right here now and I’m wanting ahead to it.”
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Simply as he did for Arsenal, Xhaka will put on the quantity 34 shirt for Sunderland. recommend the price is €20m (£17.4m), with Leverkusen giving the inexperienced mild to the transfer on Monday.
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The switch is a bit embarrassing for , who had responded to feedback by Xhaka’s agent by insisting the midfielder could be remaining on the membership this summer time.
“The agent of Xhaka can say no matter he needs, however this membership has already let three vital gamers go, and we gained’t let any extra go,” ten Hag . “Granit is a pacesetter, he nonetheless has three years left on his contract right here.”
Leverkusen had already bought Odilon Kossounou to Atalanta, and Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong to Liverpool, netting the membership virtually €200m. Regardless of ten Hag’s protestations, they’ve now added one other €20m with Xhaka’s transfer.
Picture by way of SAFC.com
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David Ornstein had that Xhaka had formally requested his membership to let him go, permitting him to return to the Premier League after seven years within the division with Arsenal.
The 32-year-old gained two FA Cups and two Group Shields with the Gunners, and he infamously captained the aspect for a short time. It seems to be like 2025/26 will convey his first aggressive fixtures enjoying in opposition to his previous membership.