Italian reports link Granit Xhaka with a shock move to Juventus, but Sunderland have no intention of letting him go

Granit Xhaka has been linked with a shock January move to Juventus, according to new reports in Italy – but the claims appear to collapse under scrutiny.

TuttoSport reported on Tuesday that Juventus, who failed to land Xhaka in the summer, are considering another attempt to sign the midfielder when the window reopens. The newspaper suggests that Xhaka’s representatives have begun assessing potential opportunities across Europe following Sunderland’s impressive start to the Premier League season, prompting Juve to believe a mid-season deal could be possible.

Their story also revisits the summer window, claiming Xhaka’s camp showed an openness to talks with the Turin club before the 33-year-old eventually completed his switch from Bayer Leverkusen to Wearside. Juventus are said to view Xhaka as an attractive, experienced option as they look to reshape their midfield in January, and TuttoSport even speculate that Sunderland would not stand in his way if he requested an exit.

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However, the suggestion that Sunderland might sanction a swift sale does not align with the reality at the Stadium of Light. Xhaka has become a central figure in Regis Le Bris’ project since arriving, making 11 appearances so far and contributing four goal contibutions. On and off the pitch, he has already assumed a leadership role within an evolving squad, and there has been no indication from the club or the player that an early departure is under consideration.

Xhaka’s move to Sunderland was the product of a lengthy negotiation with Leverkusen and strong interest from AC Milan, with the Black Cats ultimately securing a coup signing that has been pivotal to their Premier League momentum. Despite giving the rumour prominent front-page treatment, the claims coming out of Italy appear speculative at best and are not supported by any concrete evidence that Sunderland would entertain Juventus’ interest.

Why an exit makes little sense

For a start, Xhaka signed a significant contract when he joined Sunderland in the summer, committing to the project Kyril Louis-Dreyfus pitched to him. He has bought in completely. He has already become a central figure under Regis Le Bris, wearing the armband, driving standards, and instantly emerging as a talismanic personality in the dressing room.

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On the pitch, he has been one of Sunderland’s standout performers, featuring 11 times so far and contributing four goal contributions as the club continue to defy pre-season expectations. Off the pitch, he has connected with supporters in a way rarely seen at a football club, becoming a fan favourite within weeks. Xhaka has spoken openly about how much he is enjoying life back in the Premier League and how motivated he is by the responsibility he has been given on Wearside.

From Sunderland’s perspective, the idea of selling their captain in January is simply not a realistic prospect. He is central to the team’s identity, leadership structure and tactical balance. The club have invested heavily in him, both financially and emotionally, and view him as a cornerstone of their Premier League project. Xhaka is also fully invested in Sunderland. An exit just months after an arrival does not feel on the cards.

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