After a prolonged transfer saga, Granit Xhaka has officially joined Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen on a £17million transfer.

The former Arsenal midfielder has penned a three-year contract at the Stadium of Light.

“I’m very proud to be here,” Xhaka said. “When I spoke to the club, I was excited and I felt the energy, and the mentality that all the people and players have. It’s exactly what I wanted, and I have a very good feeling.

“We are back to where this club needs to be, and we want to stay here to write our own history. I feel that I’m ready to help the team with my experience but with quality as well.

“We need to find ourselves on the pitch, but I don’t think this will be a big problem. It’s been a long time to wait, but I’m here now and I’m looking forward to it.”