Chelsea are reportedly showing interest in acquiring Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka. This potential move could see Xhaka reunite with Xabi Alonso, who recently took over as manager at Chelsea. Xhaka played a significant role under Alonso during their time together at Bayer Leverkusen.
Xhaka joined Sunderland last summer, arriving from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported fee of £13m. During his time with Sunderland, he was instrumental in the club not only maintaining their place in the Premier League but also securing qualification for the Europa League. He made 34 appearances in the league last season, contributing with one goal and six assists.
Alonso is said to be keen on bringing experienced players into the Chelsea squad. Xhaka, who will turn 34 in September, is seen as a player of interest due to his proven experience in the Premier League and his close working relationship with Alonso. The two previously celebrated a Bundesliga title win with Leverkusen in 2024.
Despite Chelsea’s interest, Sunderland are reportedly determined to retain Xhaka and are expected to resist any offers. There has been no direct contact between the clubs, and Sunderland would not welcome any bids for the midfielder, indicating he is not for sale. Xhaka currently has two years remaining on his contract with Sunderland.
Alonso’s transfer priorities at Chelsea
Xabi Alonso’s arrival at Chelsea signals a period of potential squad adjustments. The club is looking to add experienced players, with Xhaka being one of the midfield options under consideration. However, given Xhaka’s age, Chelsea are unlikely to offer an excessive fee for his services.
Before his move to Germany, Xhaka spent seven seasons with Arsenal, where he made 297 appearances and scored 23 goals. He also played 99 times for Bayer Leverkusen before returning to England with Sunderland. At the time of his move to Sunderland, Xhaka was reportedly interested in a return to London, with West Ham being a potential option, though he ultimately chose not to pursue it.
Beyond Xhaka, Chelsea has already been active in the transfer market. The club has agreed a deal to sign right-back Marco Palestra from Atalanta. Palestra, who is 21, arrived in London from Rome to finalize the move and reportedly underwent his medical on Friday. This transfer is expected to be worth £43m and would mark Alonso’s first signing as Chelsea manager.
Other potential movements at Stamford Bridge
The summer transfer window is anticipated to be busy at Stamford Bridge. In terms of departures, Marc Cucurella has been sold to Real Madrid. There is also speculation that Real Madrid might pursue Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández.
Chelsea are also fielding interest in defender Trevoh Chalobah from Como. Chalobah, who is part of England’s World Cup squad, is valued at £30m plus an additional £5m in add-ons. However, a deal with Como appears challenging, and other clubs are also reportedly interested in the player.
The club is also monitoring other players for potential acquisitions. Chelsea has made an enquiry about signing centre-back Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace, as Alonso is looking to strengthen the central defense this summer. Additionally, Chelsea is among the clubs keeping an eye on West Ham wingers Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville.
The average age of the current Chelsea squad is 23.8, and Alonso’s interest in players like Xhaka suggests a focus on integrating more experienced individuals into the team. Xhaka’s current contract with Sunderland runs for two years.
Source: theguardian.com
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