Sunderland are reportedly plotting an ambitious move to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s Granit Xhaka. The Premier League newcomers are operating bravely in the transfer window so far in the hope of building a squad capable of avoiding relegation, and their spending spree is showing no signs of slowing.
The Black Cats have already bolstered their ranks with the arrivals of Habib Diarra, Noah Sadiki and Chemsdine Talbi. They also won the race to sign ex-Atletico Madrid star Reinildo as a free agent before signing Simon Adingra from Brighton.
Regis Le Bris is keen to improve his squad further and a host of big-name stars have been linked with a move to the Stadium of Light. According to Sacha Tavolieri, former Arsenal captain Xhaka has now come under consideration and Sunderland have ‘entered the race’ to secure his signature.
Leverkusen and Black Cats owner Kyril Louis Dreyfus are said to already be in negotiations over a potential deal worth in the region of £8.6million, though it remains to be seen whether the midfielder is open to the prospect of returning to the Premier League.
Saudi Pro League outfits have already pushed to sign Xhaka this summer, with newly-promoted NEOM SC keen to acquire his services. However, Sunderland are holding out hope that they can turn his head and have offered him a three-year contract with the club.
Xhaka made 49 appearances in all competitions for Leverkusen last season, scoring twice and registering seven assists. The 32-year-old was a stalwart in Xabi Alonso’s system at the club, but the Bundesliga outfit are rebuilding their ranks following the departure of their manager and several marquee stars – such as now-Liverpool stars Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.
Sunderland appear to have a host of other impressive deals in the pipeline too, with the club looking to build a strong core capable of guiding the club to safety. Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumi is on their radar and talks are said to have already taken place with the Colombia international over a potential move.
The Black Cats have also been linked with Leicester City star Bilal El Khannouss, who could leave the Foxes this summer following their relegation to the Championship. The versatile forward is also admired by West Ham.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk