Sunderland are closing in on a move for Bayer Leverkusen midfielder and former Arsenal captain Granit Xhaka, with both clubs currently in advanced negotiations.
The Swiss international has already agreed personal terms with the newly promoted Premier League side, committing to a proposed three-year deal.
His agent, Jose Noguera, confirmed to Sky in Germany that Xhaka is eager for a return to English football.
“We’ve reached an agreement in principle with Sunderland,” said Noguera. “Granit wants to return to the Premier League. Sunderland excites him – he wants to take on this challenge.
“We hope Leverkusen will respect his wish to leave and that the clubs will find an agreement soon.”
However, Bayer Leverkusen head coach Erik ten Hag, speaking during the club’s pre-season tour in Brazil, appeared unwilling to sanction the midfielder’s departure.
“The agent can say anything, but this club has already sold three important players. We won’t let go of any more players; that’s not possible. That would neglect the structure and culture of the squad,” Ten Hag insisted.
“Clearly, Granit is a leader. He signed for five years and has three years left on his contract. He’s too important for us to let go.”
Backing the coach’s stance, Leverkusen’s sporting managing director Simon Rolfes added, “I’ve always said that Granit is an important leader. The coach and I have a very similar perspective.”
Despite the Bundesliga side’s firm position, Sunderland remain hopeful of securing Xhaka’s services.
The Black Cats have already splashed £107 million on six new signings this summer as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.
