Granit Xhaka is reportedly set to reject a return to England with Sunderland, choosing instead to stay at Bayer Leverkusen under new manager Erik ten Hag. The former Arsenal captain remains a key figure in Leverkusen’s midfield and is prioritizing stability for both his family and footballing career.
Granit Xhaka appears set to resist overtures from England and elsewhere this summer, with reports suggesting the former Arsenal midfielder will remain at Bayer Leverkusen despite mounting transfer interest. The 32-year-old has emerged as a crucial piece in Leverkusen’s setup and is not keen on disrupting the momentum he’s built in Germany.
Sunderland were among the clubs hopeful of luring Xhaka back to the Premier League. The Black Cats had reportedly tabled a serious offer as part of their ambitious project to climb back into the Premier League spotlight. But the Swiss veteran is expected to turn down their approach, with stability—both on and off the pitch—playing a major role in his thinking.
Xhaka, who joined Leverkusen in 2023 following a transformative seven-year spell at Arsenal, helped the German club to their first-ever Bundesliga title last season. His leadership, tactical discipline, and experience in high-pressure matches have made him a central figure at the BayArena. With three years left on his contract, Leverkusen have made it clear they’re in no rush to sell.
Saudi side Neom reportedly made a bid earlier in the window, offering €8 million (£6.7m), but that fell well short of Leverkusen’s €15 million (£12.6m) valuation. Turkish giants Fenerbahce also submitted a proposal, as did AC Milan, but both clubs ultimately backed away after failing to meet financial demands or convince the player to uproot.
According to Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Xhaka’s focus is on continuity and family, rather than chasing one final payday or taking on a fresh challenge abroad. That sentiment is further reinforced by the arrival of Erik ten Hag at Leverkusen. The Dutchman, who replaced Xabi Alonso as manager, reportedly views Xhaka as a foundational piece of his midfield rebuild and intends to shape the team’s tempo around the Swiss international’s strengths.
That kind of vote of confidence isn’t lost on a player who’s long thrived under managers who trust him. At Arsenal, it took Mikel Arteta’s support to restore his place after a turbulent period. At Leverkusen, that trust is already baked in—and with Ten Hag now fully onboard, Xhaka’s influence could grow even further.
For Sunderland, missing out on Xhaka is undoubtedly a blow. Their ambitious recruitment drive will have to shift focus elsewhere, as prying away one of the Bundesliga’s most respected midfielders has proven a step too far.
As things stand, Granit Xhaka seems destined to remain in Germany—leading Leverkusen’s title defense and embracing a new chapter under a manager who sees him not just as a player, but as a leader to build around.
