Granit Xhaka is closing in on a surprising Premier League comeback, with the Swiss midfielder reaching an agreement with the newly-promoted Sunderland.

Granit Xhaka’s potential move to Sunderland has been thrown into major doubt after Erik ten Hag blocked his exit. The former Manchester United manager, who took over from Xabi Alonso at

Sunderland are closing in on the signing of former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka with the player keen on a return to the Premier League.According to various reports, both the Black Cats and Bayer

The proposed transfer is believed to be worth approximately £8.7m and is currently being negotiated between the two clubs. Xhaka is said to have requested that Leverkusen finalise the deal quickly, with the aim of joining Regis Le Bris ’s squad in time for pre-season preparations.

Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris spoke to The Echo after the 1-0 defeat to Sporting Lisbon at Estadio Algarve on Monday night. He reflected on an encouraging performance despite the result and gave an update on the club’s transfer plans, as well as confirming the current injury situation at the club.

Granit Xhaka has agreed terms with Sunderland, with the club now in talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a fee for the 32-year-old Switzerland midfielder. (Times - subscription required)

Sunderland are close to signing Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen; the 32-year-old has three years left on his Leverkusen current deal; Xhaka has 137 caps for Switzerland and won the Bundesliga title with Leverkusen;

Granit Xhaka’s agent says Sunderland have a deal in place – and urges Bayer Leverkusen to agree sale Granit Xhaka has reached an agreement in principle with Sunderland – and now wants Bayer Leverkusen to sanction his exit immediately.