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Inter Milan Take Lead in Granit Xhaka Transfer Chase as Sunderland Push Hard – Bayer Leverkusen Demand Swift Decision Amid Fierce Battle.
Inter Milan have reportedly surged ahead in the race to sign Granit Xhaka, amid strong interest from Premier League newcomers Sunderland. The Swiss international, currently at Bayer Leverkusen, has been the subject of mounting transfer speculation, with multiple European clubs vying for his signature.
Sunderland recently made headlines with an ambitious three-year contract offer for the former Arsenal captain, as revealed by *The Telegraph*’s Mike McGrath. According to the report, the Black Cats are serious about landing the experienced midfielder to strengthen their squad following promotion.
However, new developments suggest that Inter Milan are now considered frontrunners for Xhaka’s services. Italian outlet *Gazzetta dello Sport* claims the Serie A giants have identified the 32-year-old as a prime candidate to replace Hakan Calhanoglu—should the Turkish star complete a move to Galatasaray. That transfer remains uncertain due to Inter’s steep demands, but Xhaka remains high on their shortlist and is seen as a perfect fit for Simone Inzaghi’s side.
Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen’s managing director of sport, Simon Rolfes, has addressed the swirling transfer talk. Speaking to *Bild*, Rolfes was adamant that the Bundesliga champions aren’t actively looking to part with Xhaka unless all parties benefit from the deal.
> “Granit is incredibly important to our team and club,” Rolfes said. “Yes, there’s interest, but we’re not pushing him out the door. We want to keep him and aim for a solution that suits everyone.”
Rolfes also confirmed that Leverkusen expect clarity soon, stating:
> “This won’t drag through the whole window. We’re finalising our squad and Granit plays a key role in our plans. We expect a decision sooner rather than later.”
Despite Sunderland’s bold approach and Turkish club Fenerbahce also monitoring the situation, the momentum now appears to be with Inter. Still, with Xhaka under contract until 2027 and Leverkusen holding firm, any move will require careful negotiation—and a swift resolution.
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