Granit Xhaka wants Premier League return! Ex-Arsenal star's agent confirms agreement and urges Bayer Leverkusen to allow transfer as midfielder snubs Serie A and Saudi Pro League offers

The future of Xhaka seems to have been resolved amid his desire to leave Bayer Leverkusen this summer, despite having a contract valid until summer 2028. The ex-Arsenal man has snubbed several offers from across Europe and beyond to mark a return to the Premier League.

Xhaka has been linked with several big clubs across Europe. Inter recently enquired about the possibility of signing him, while Fenerbahce have also expressed interest in the midfielder amid a major squad overhaul this summer. Juventus were ready to place a bid for him, while he turned down an approach from Saudi Arabia. Instead, it seems that the Swiss international will attempt to make his mark on the Premier League once again, this time with a newly-promoted side.

"We have reached a basic agreement with Sunderland," Xhaka's agent Jose Noguera confirmed in an interview with Sky. "We hope that Leverkusen will respect his wish to leave and that the clubs will reach an agreement soon."

Among others, Italian side AC Milan showed great interest in the 32-year-old, but Xhaka, who is currently on tour in Brazil with Leverkusen, apparently decided otherwise. "Granit wants to return to the Premier League," said his agent. "He is excited about Sunderland – he wants to take on this challenge."

The midfielder will be hoping that Sunderland and Leverkusen can strike an agreement, before he prepares to undergo medicals at his potential new club. Xhaka will be tasked with helping the Black Cats remain afloat after returning to the top-flight following an eight-year absence.