Erik ten Hag has clarified his position amid reports linking Granit Xhaka with a surprise return to the Premier League.
Sunderland has reached an agreement in principle to bring the former Arsenal midfielder back to England. However, Bayer Leverkusen refuses to allow the trade go through without a struggle.
Jose Noguera, Xhaka’s agent, confirmed his client’s plans earlier this week.
“We have reached an agreement in principle with Sunderland.” Granit hopes to return to the Premier League. Sunderland excites him, and 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.”
The 32-year-old has informed Leverkusen that Sunderland is his only preferred destination, with personal terms agreed upon and a clear desire to return to English football.
But Ten Hag, speaking following a training session on the club’s pre-season tour of Brazil, looked unconcerned about Xhaka’s position.
“The agent can say anything, but this club has already sold three key players. We will not let go of any more players; this is not doable. “That would undermine the squad’s structure and culture. Clearly, Granit is a leader. He signed for five years and has three years remaining on his contract. “He’s too important for us to let go.”
The aftermath threatens to be Ten Hag’s first significant internal conflict at Leverkusen.
The Dutchman replaced Xabi Alonso earlier this summer, but he has already lost Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz to Liverpool in high-profile transfers.
Tense player relationships, including well-documented fallouts with Cristiano Ronaldo, Jadon Sancho, and Harry Maguire, characterized his turbulent spell at Manchester United.
Losing Xhaka, or even falling out with his captain early in his career, could be problematic.
But Ten Hag’s message has been reiterated by sporting director Simon Rolfes. Sporting director Simon Rolfes stated:
“I’ve always stated that Granit is an important leader. The coach and I share a very similar viewpoint. “There are numerous issues that consistently stir discussions and conversations. That is why it does not surprise me.
Despite the impasse, Xhaka has yet to speak publicly. According to German media, he is now unable to discuss the subject because of internal club limitations.
Sunderland’s pursuit continues. Regis Le Bris has already added Habib Diarra, Simon Adingra, Chemsdine Talbi, Reinildo, and Noah Sadiki to his roster.
However, Xhaka would be their most significant statement to date, with the former Arsenal captain, who made nearly 300 appearances in North London, potentially facing his former club in November.
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