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Sunderland have been working on a move for Bayer Leverkusen’s Granit Xhaka this summer.

Earlier this week, journalist Sacha Tavolieri reported the midfielder has received a three-year contract offer from Sunderland, who have started talks with the German club.

Neom SC have also shown interest in the midfielder and on Thursday, Tavolieri said the Saudi Arabian club are out of the race as they are unwilling to offer more than €8m. He added Sunderland remain a clear option for Xhaka.

Bild now report Régis Le Bris’ side have made advances to sign the 32-year-old.

The Premier League newcomers are said to have submitted an offer for the Switzerland international. The fee proposed by the Black Cats isn’t mentioned, but it’s less than the €20m price set by the Bundesliga club.

Xhaka’s contract expires in 2028 and will turn 33 years of age in September. Sunderland would take this into account and may not be willing to meet Bayer Leverkusen’s request.

Erik ten Hag’s side are currently in Brazil for preseason and the outlet says the player isn’t letting the speculation around his future impact him.

Bayer Leverkusen managing director Simon Rolfes has been asked about the former Arsenal man’s situation.

“Granit is a very important player for us, for the team and for the club. Our main interest is to keep him,” he said.

“Sure, there is interest in him, we need to speak to the player to know what his ambitions are. But one thing is clear: There would only be a transfer in a win-win situation.

“We still have a three-year contract with the player and are very happy with him. We have big goals for the next few years. That’s why there can only be a transfer if it’s good for all sides. We’ll have to wait and see. But our goal is for Granit to stay with us.”