Sunderland are one of the clubs chasing Bayer Leverkusen’s Granit Xhaka this summer.
Four days ago, Bild reported the Premier League newcomers had tabled an offer which was short of Bayer Leverkusen’s €20m demand. Their managing director, Simon Rolfes, said they are open to selling the midfielder if it suits all parties.
Sky Deutschland now back up Sunderland making an initial bid and provide the latest on them.
At this moment in time, the Black Cats and Fenerbahçe are serious about Xhaka, and both are ‘concrete options’ for the 32-year-old.
The Switzerland international was at Arsenal between 2016 and 2023 and Sky now state a move to the Stadium of Light ‘would certainly appeal’ to him.
Sky point out the Bundesliga club rejecting Sunderland’s opening offer and add that the Black Cats plan to make a second bid, without mentioning figures. Bild earlier reported Erik ten Hag’s side want €20m.
The report adds the German club have also rejected Fenerbahçe’s opening bid and the Turkish are planning to return with a new offer. Xhaka, if he decides to leave, would to pick between Sunderland and the Super Lig side.
