Sunderland have completed the signing of Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen on a three-year deal.
The 32-year-old midfielder joins Wearside after two years at Bayer Leverkusen and a successful 2023-24 season that saw the team crowned Bundesliga champions and lift the DFB Cup.
Last season, Xhaka played 49 matches for Bayer in all competitions, including 10 in the Champions League.
He began his career at Basel before signing for Borussia Monchengladbach. He has Premier League experience, having spent seven years at Arsenal after moving to north London in 2016, making 225 league appearances and winning the FA Cup twice.
Switzerland international Xhaka has been the team's captain since 2020 and holds the record for most caps for the national team, with 137.
He told the club's official website: “I am very proud to be here. When I was talking to the club, I was inspired and felt the energy and spirit of all the people and players.”
“This is exactly what I wanted and I have a very good feeling about it. We are back where our club should be and we are committed to staying here to write our history.”
“I feel that I am ready to help the team not only with my experience, but also with my quality.
We need to find ourselves on the pitch, but I don't think it will be a big problem. It's been a long wait, but now I'm here and I'm looking forward to it.”
Sporting Director Kristjan Speakman said: “We are delighted to welcome Granit and his family to Sunderland.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
