Sunderland is “exploring a move” for a “true leader” this summer, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.
Black Cats in a good position to avoid the relegation
After eight years out of the Premier League, it will be a difficult order for the Black Cats to avoid relegation in their first season back, but former Everton manager Keith Wyness feels they are in a good position to accomplish it.
Wyness stated, “I adore what Sunderland is doing, and they will not be in my bottom six for next year. They’re actually one of the few promoted clubs that I believe has a good chance of remaining up.
“Now, I was speaking with someone yesterday who I regard to be one of the best agents in the league, and he said watch out for Diarra at Sunderland, the signing they made from Strasbourg. “He believes he’ll be a revelation next year.”
Regis Le Bris’ side made an excellent job of securing Habib Diarra, despite the fact that fellow recently promoted club Leeds United were also interested, but it may be prudent to bring in another center midfielder in light of Jobe Bellingham’s departure.
Sunderland have recently confirmed that they have initiated talks with Bayer Leverkusen about a potential £8.5 million deal for midfielder Granit Xhaka, and there has now been another update on the maestro’s future.
Taking to X, Jacobs said that the Black Cats are still “exploring a move” for Xhaka, although they may face competition from Saudi Pro League club NEOM SC.
The reporter also stated that the midfielder is “open to an exit” this summer, despite having three years left on his contract with Bayer Leverkusen, perhaps paving the way for a move to the Stadium of Light.
“True leader” Xhaka may be the ideal signing for Sunderland
It may be a cliché, but teams require leaders in the dressing room if they are to succeed, and the Leverkusen midfielder surely fits that criteria.
“When we had a chance to start with Granit, we had no doubts because of his personality, his qualities, what he delivers, not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well,” said former manager Xabi Alonso, who praised the impact the Switzerland international had at Leverkusen both on and off the field.
“He truly is a leader… He has improved us as a team and given us a lot more maturity.
Importantly, having played in the Premier League for the Gunners for 225 games, the former Arsenal player also has a ton of experience in the league and could be a terrific addition to a Sunderland team trying to stay in the league.
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