Ten Hag: Xhaka "Too Important" to Leave Leverkusen

Bayer Leverkusen head coach Erik ten Hag has firmly ruled out Granit Xhaka's potential transfer to Sunderland, despite the midfielder's reported agreement with the newly promoted Premier League club.

The 32-year-old Swiss international's agent confirmed on Tuesday that personal terms had been agreed with Sunderland, signaling Xhaka's desire to return to English football after his successful seven-year spell with Arsenal.

However, Ten Hag emphasized that Leverkusen cannot afford to lose another key player after already parting ways with three important squad members this summer:

• Florian Wirtz (transferred to Liverpool)
• Jeremie Frimpong (transferred to Liverpool)
• Jonathan Tah (transferred to Bayern Munich)

"The agent can say anything. But this club has already lost three important players," Ten Hag stated firmly. "We won't let any more players go - that's not possible. That would neglect the structure and also the culture of the squad."

Xhaka, who joined Leverkusen in 2023 after his Arsenal tenure, remains a crucial part of the Bundesliga champions' plans:

• Signed a five-year contract in 2023 (three years remaining)
• Played pivotal role in Leverkusen's historic Bundesliga and German Cup double
• Featured in Europa League final during debut season
• Considered a key leader in the squad

Ten Hag, who took over from Xabi Alonso after the Spaniard's move to Real Madrid, clearly values Xhaka's experience and leadership qualities as he looks to build on Leverkusen's recent success.