James Copley: Why the Granit Xhaka deal isn't dead yet

I wrote a blog and made a video earlier this week explaining why Sunderland supporters should be thrilled about the

team’s pursuit of Granit Xhaka. Not only because of Xhaka’s status as a former Premier League captain and

Champions League midfielder, but also because of what this move signifies.

It serves as a symbol. An indication of the seriousness with which Sunderland’s ownership is approaching this

transfer window. This isn’t a speculative punt; the ambition is genuine. To be clear, however, the deal is not finalised.

Additionally, a lot of you correctly noted that in the comments. What’s the latest, then?

In my opinion, there are good and bad reasons to be optimistic. Let’s begin with the advantages. Xhaka desires the

transfer. The move is what Sunderland wants. His agent also does. Furthermore, according to all accounts, Xhaka is

a strong-willed individual who could force his way out of Bayer Leverkusen if that is his true calling. You would like

to think that a solution can be discovered if everyone is working towards the same goal.

However, the difficulties cannot be avoided. Leverkusen has made it plain where they stand. The club’s sports

director and head coach Erik ten Hag have officially quell rumours by stating that Xhaka is an important component

of their ambitions. His contract is still in effect for another three years. He serves as their captain. He is also one of

the most powerful people in the dressing room.

There’s also the PR angle to consider. Leverkusen have already lost several high-profile players this summer. To lose

their captain as well – especially to a newly promoted Premier League side – would raise questions internally and

externally about their direction under ten Hag.

This might be the point at which the move reaches a financial dead end. Leverkusen is apparently holding out for

closer to €20 million (£17 million), while Sunderland’s €10 million (£8.5 million) proposal was rejected. For a player

who turns 33 in September, will Sunderland get that far? Maybe. However, it is by no means assured. Money will be

the deciding factor, as it always is, and where both clubs draw the line.

The circumstances do remind me of the chase of Alexandre Mendy last summer. That transaction continued for

months. Despite Mendy’s and his agent’s best efforts to leave, his club pressed in. Sunderland eventually left and

went on.

Is it possible for history to repeat itself? Maybe. And Sunderland cannot wait indefinitely if they are serious about

signing a guy with this calibre of profile and background. The clock is running out, but there is still time to finish it.

This is one to keep a close eye on for the time being.

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