Chelsea are refusing to let go of Sunderland star Granit Xhaka as the trump card offers hope of a deal
Chelsea’s persistent interest in former star Xabi Alonso continues, despite the Sunderland star confirming his commitment to the Black Cats.
Their pursuit of Xhaka has already changed a lot this summer, with their opening offer of £8m rejected and expected to come back with an improved bid.
The Blues are said to have tested the waters with Sunderland to find an experienced Swiss player, but Regis Le Bris’ team quickly clarified that Xhaka is not for sale.
Some reports have suggested that Chelsea are ready to make a new bid of around £10m for one of Alonso’s key men at Bayer Leverkusen, and according to Italian journalist Luca Cerchione, Sunderland have set a minimum £25m asking price for Xhaka.
Xhaka is considered the most important figure to leave, mainly because of his leadership role and influence since arriving back in England.
Then on Friday news emerged that the 33-year-old would be staying at Sunderland following fresh talks, with Chelsea facing a major problem with Alonso’s other summer target.
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The Black Cats will not let their World Cup star go easily.
However, the Blues are still believed to be willing to take it easy.
Chelsea ‘remain interested’ in Granit Xhaka as they hope to land Xabi Alonso
Indeed, according to Ben Jacobs of TalkSPORT, Chelsea are ‘remaining interested’ and ‘active’ in the approach of the experienced midfielder, confident that they are still attracted by the prospect of working with Alonso again.
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
Ben Jacobs is regarded as one of the most reliable football transfer reporters in football, especially in matters relating to the Premier League and the Middle East. He is known for detailed reporting, strong industry connections and balanced reviews rather than sensational claims. Although he is not infallible, his specialty is often confirmed by other respected journalists as transfer news develops. |
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Finance |
If Chelsea are miraculously able to revive a move for Xhaka, they will likely need to increase their offer significantly to tempt Sunderland into any talks. Reports suggest the Black Cats are bidding more for Granit Xhaka than the Blues’ rejected bid of £8m and around £25m, making a deal difficult. Even if Chelsea improve their offer, Sunderland’s reluctance to sell and Xhaka’s confirmed commitment to the club remain major obstacles. |
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Understanding |
Xhaka has enjoyed an incredible career, winning league titles in Switzerland and Germany while captaining the club and country. After settling at Borussia Mönchengladbach, he spent seven years at Arsenal before becoming the driving force behind Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga unbeaten run. His leadership defined all stages. |
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Impact |
Xhaka’s departure, although highly unlikely at the moment, would leave Sunderland without an experienced midfield leader. His organization, passing and composure help to control the match, while his mind raises the standards in the squad. Replacing those qualities would be difficult, although a large transfer fee would allow Sunderland to strengthen many areas of the squad. |
Sunderland sources, however, are still of the belief that Xhaka will not be going anywhere and will lead them into the Europa League next season after fresh talks.
They have also told Chelsea that Xhaka is not for sale, and the former Arsenal star’s new status now gives Chelsea a mountain to climb if they decide to continue their pursuit.
Chelsea’s Granit Xhaka is in trouble as Sunderland refuse to budge
Xhaka’s importance to Sunderland is very important.
Since his arrival, he has been a key figure in the dressing room, bringing control, experience and leadership to the midfielder. The influence he has on and off the field has made him one of the most trusted players in the squad, and that is reflected in the strength of the team.
On the other hand, there is the financial temptation of a significant payment for a player in the final stages of his career. On the other hand, there is the amount of football Xhaka brings, which Alonso clearly believes is not easily replaced.
For Chelsea, the problem is a little different.
The club is considering whether to bend its recruitment rules to satisfy the new manager.
Xhaka does not fit the usual profile of a Chelsea signing, especially given his age, but his experience and Premier League experience are qualities that are difficult to find in the market.
From Sunderland’s point of view, holding firm makes perfect sense. Xhaka is not just a player, he is a leader who sets standards in midfield, and replacing that influence will cost both money and time.
For Chelsea, paying that amount sounds risky, but ignoring the manager’s wishes could be just as costly in the long run.
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