Under Louis-Dreyfus' leadership, Sunderland has been promoted twice in less than five years, including a thrilling Championship playoff final win against Sheffield United in May. Despite losing talented young player Jobe Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund, manager Regis Le Bris has made several smart signings, including Habib Diarra, Simon Adingra, Enzo Le Fee, Chesmine Talbi, Noah Sadiki, and Reinildo Mandava.
Now, the club is reportedly making a bold move to bring experienced midfielder Granit Xhaka back to the Premier League. The 32-year-old Swiss international has extensive experience in the EPL with Arsenal and has played a key role in Bayer Leverkusen's Bundesliga title win in 2023. He still has three years left on his contract, but there is an understanding that he may be allowed to leave if the right offer comes in.
Xhaka's reliability is not in question, despite his age. He has won more fouls than he has conceded in Germany and has shown a high level of accuracy in his passing, with a record of 88.7% to 94.6%. He is also a hard worker, covering 378.2km in the 2024/25 campaign and making 2,426 intensive runs. His defensive skills are impressive, with 460 ball recoveries and a high tackle success rate of 72.4%.
Although Xhaka may not be a goal-scorer, he has a strong left foot and has scored six goals for Leverkusen, all from outside the box. His drive and determination are exactly what Sunderland needs to succeed in the Premier League. At a reported €10m, he would be a steal of a signing, but the riches of Saudi Arabia may tempt him to stay in the Middle East.
NEOM, a Saudi Pro League side, has placed a bid for Xhaka and is offering a substantial financial package. However, if Xhaka's next move is based solely on salary, he may opt for Saudi Arabia. Nevertheless, heading back to the Premier League as the fulcrum of a side with a clear project and ambition may be more appealing at this stage of his career.
Sunderland's ambition to build a strong team and compete in the Premier League makes a move for Xhaka a perfect sense. With his experience, skills, and drive, he could be the key to the Black Cats' success.
