Erik ten Hag has insisted Granit Xhaka is “too important” for Bayer Leverkusen to allow to leave despite the midfielder informing the club he wants to join Sunderland.

Antony’s emergence during his first stint under Ten Hag at Ajax ultimately saw United pay £86 million ($115.3 million) to reunite the pair at Old Trafford in the summer of 2022, but things did not go to plan for either man in Manchester.

Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka is closing in on a move to Premier League newcomers Sunderland. It is understood the Black Cats have agreed personal terms with the 32-year-old former Arsenal skipper and are attempting to thrash out a fee with the Bundesliga club,