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Granit Xhaka set to make Sunderland history as club’s highest-paid player ever

Kieran Smith

Mon 28 July 2025 15:05, UK Updated Mon 28 July 2025 15:25, UK

TBR Football understands Granit Xhaka will become the highest-paid player in Sunderland’s history.

Xhaka has agreed a three-year deal at the Stadium of Light and will not take a pay cut from his Bayer Leverkusen wage.

Sunderland have finalised terms with Xhaka, who Black Cats boss Regis Le Bris has insisted on ever since he was made aware that the Swiss ace was ready to make the move.

Sunderland’s interest emerged via co-owner Juan Sartori, who has helped tee up the deal for the former Arsenal star.

Xhaka rejected moves to the Saudi Pro League and Turkey; instead, Xhaka preferred a move back to England.

The two clubs have now agreed terms, with the total worth €20million (£17.3m).

Exclusive: Inside Granit Xhaka’s ‘blockbuster’ move to Sunderland

TBR Football can exclusively reveal, through chief correspondent Graeme Bailey, how the Xhaka deal came about for Sunderland.

Bailey states: “Sunderland were never quite sure they could pull the Xhaka deal off. When it was first suggested to Juan Sartori via intermediaries, it was seen as unlikely.

“But as talks progressed, it became increasingly evident to the club that they could get him and they have now got it over the line.

“This really is a blockbuster move, Sunderland have done bigger deals this summer – in terms of fees, but getting Xhaka is massive – he is going to become the cornerstone of this Sunderland team.”

How much could Granit Xhaka earn at Sunderland?

TBR Football understands that Xhaka will not be taking a wage cut from his Bayer Leverkusen deal – indeed, we are told the midfielder will be getting a wage rise.

Right now, Enzo Le Fee is the highest earner, but the ex-Gunner is set to blow that out of the water.

History is made in Sunderland, Xhaka is coming to the Stadium of Light.