Sunderland have confirmed the signing of Swiss international Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported fee of 17.3 million.
The former Arsenal captain has penned a three-year deal with the Premier League newcomers as they prepare for their return to top-flight football.
Now 32, Xhaka joined Leverkusen in 2023 and was instrumental in helping the German side clinch both the Bundesliga title and the German Cup during a highly successful season.
Speaking about his move, Xhaka said he felt an immediate connection with Sunderland.
"I'm extremely proud to join the club. From my first conversation, I sensed the energy and ambition here-it's exactly what I've been looking for. This club is back where it belongs, and we want to create something special," he said.