Granit Xhaka in Talks to Reunite with Xabi Alonso at Chelsea
Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka, currently Sunderland captain, has verbally agreed personal terms with Chelsea for a potential transfer. The 33-year-old previously played under Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen and is eager to reunite with him at Chelsea, where Alonso becomes manager on July 1. However, Sunderland insists Xhaka is not for sale, and negotiations between clubs are ongoing. The move would add Premier League experience to Chelsea's young squad.
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Granit Xhaka Confirms He Will Stay at Sunderland, Dealing Transfer Blow to Chelsea
Chelsea's pursuit of midfielder Granit Xhaka has ended after the Swiss international confirmed he will remain at Sunderland. Xhaka, a former Arsenal player, was a top target for Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, who previously coached him at Bayer Leverkusen. In an interview, Xhaka stated he and his family are happy at Sunderland and he is focused on the World Cup. The decision is a setback for Alonso, who is trying to rebuild a youthful Chelsea squad after a difficult season. The article notes Chelsea may now look at other midfield options, such as Alex Scott, but acknowledges the need for experienced leadership.
CaughtOffsideDi Marzio: Xhaka Tells Alonso He Will Stay at Sunderland, Rejecting Chelsea Move
Italian Sky Sports journalist Gianluca Di Marzio reports that Granit Xhaka has personally informed Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso that he will not join the Blues and will remain at Sunderland. The Swiss midfielder and his representatives have communicated this decision to Chelsea's management. Sunderland had previously stated they never considered selling the 1992-born player. Alonso, who coached Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen where they won the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and DFL-Supercup, had hoped to rely on the experienced midfielder in his first season at Chelsea. Xhaka's decision has disappointed the Spanish coach.
虎扑 - 足球Chelsea's attempt to sign Granit Xhaka fails as Sunderland star decides to stay
Chelsea's pursuit of midfielder Granit Xhaka has ended in failure, as the 33-year-old has reportedly informed Sunderland that he will not push for a transfer to Stamford Bridge. According to TEAMtalk and The Guardian, Xhaka held positive talks with Sunderland's leadership and is now committed to remaining at the Stadium of Light. Chelsea had offered £8 million for the Swiss international, which Sunderland swiftly rejected, citing his importance after their Europa League qualification. Xhaka, who joined Sunderland last summer, has become a central figure under manager Regis Le Bris, offering leadership and passing range. Chelsea's interest was driven by manager Xabi Alonso, who coached Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen. The decision is a major boost for Sunderland, who view retaining Xhaka as crucial for their Premier League and European campaigns. For Chelsea, the setback is manageable as they explore other midfield options.
CaughtOffsideGranit Xhaka to Chelsea Transfer Collapses After Sunderland Captain Decides to Stay
Granit Xhaka's proposed transfer from Sunderland to Chelsea has fallen through after the 33-year-old captain performed a U-turn and decided to remain at the Stadium of Light. Chelsea had made an opening bid of £8 million for the midfielder, which Sunderland flatly rejected. Xhaka, who is currently representing Switzerland at the World Cup and helped them reach the round of 16, had been in talks to reunite with former Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso at Chelsea. However, his strong relationship with Sunderland fans and his family's happiness in the city convinced him to stay. Xhaka joined Sunderland last summer for £17.5 million after winning the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal under Alonso at Leverkusen. He helped newly-promoted Sunderland finish seventh in the Premier League and qualify for the Europa League. Xhaka described Sunderland as a 'second home' and said he was happy to avoid transfer speculation this summer.
Mirror - Transfer NewsGranit Xhaka to Chelsea transfer collapses after Sunderland captain decides to stay
Granit Xhaka's proposed move to Chelsea has fallen through after the Sunderland captain performed a U-turn and decided to remain at the Stadium of Light. The 33-year-old midfielder had been in talks to reunite with former Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso at Chelsea, who saw their opening bid of £8 million rejected by Sunderland. Xhaka, currently at the World Cup with Switzerland, has chosen to stay and lead Sunderland into the Europa League next season. His strong relationship with the Sunderland fan base and his family's happiness in the city were key factors in his decision. Xhaka joined Sunderland last summer from Leverkusen for £17.5 million and was immediately appointed captain, helping the newly-promoted side finish seventh in the Premier League.
Mirror - FootballGranit Xhaka to Chelsea Transfer Collapses After Sunderland Captain Changes Decision
Granit Xhaka's potential move to Chelsea has fallen through after the Sunderland captain performed a U-turn on reuniting with former manager Xabi Alonso. Chelsea had made an £8 million bid for the 33-year-old Swiss international, which Sunderland flatly rejected. Xhaka, currently playing at the 2026 World Cup with Switzerland, decided to remain at the Stadium of Light and lead Sunderland into the Europa League next season. He previously joined Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen for £17.5 million and was immediately appointed captain. Xhaka cited his strong relationship with Sunderland fans and the feeling of the city being a 'second home' as key reasons for his decision. The midfielder helped newly-promoted Sunderland finish seventh in the Premier League and qualify for Europe.
Mirror - Transfer NewsGranit Xhaka to Stay at Sunderland Despite Chelsea Interest
Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka, 33, will remain at Sunderland for the upcoming season despite a €9.2 million transfer offer from Chelsea, which was rejected by the Black Cats. Xhaka joined Sunderland last year from Bayer Leverkusen for €15 million and was named team captain by manager Régis Le Bris. In his first season, Sunderland finished 7th in the Premier League, securing a Europa League spot, with Xhaka contributing one goal and six assists. Chelsea, now managed by Xhaka's former Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso, expressed interest, but the Swiss international preferred to continue his journey at the Stadium of Light. Xhaka is currently at the World Cup with Switzerland, having qualified for the round of 16 after a 2-0 victory over Algeria.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuGranit Xhaka Decides to Stay at Sunderland, Rejects Chelsea Move
According to an exclusive report by Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth, Granit Xhaka will remain with Sunderland after reaffirming his commitment to the club. Despite initial interest in joining Chelsea to work with manager Xabi Alonso, the midfielder was swayed by the opportunity to lead Sunderland into European competition. The club's stance on retaining Xhaka remained unchanged throughout the process. The news was published on Hupu Football, a Chinese sports media platform, on July 3.
虎扑 - 足球Granit Xhaka Chooses to Stay at Sunderland Despite Chelsea Interest
Granit Xhaka, a key player under Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, has decided to remain at Sunderland despite interest from Chelsea, where Alonso was recently appointed manager. The 33-year-old Swiss midfielder, who returned to the Premier League with Sunderland, was tempted by a reunion with Alonso but ultimately chose to stay after discussions with his club. Sunderland had maintained Xhaka was not for sale, and his attachment to the fans and the club's European ambitions were decisive factors. Xhaka is under contract with Sunderland until 2028.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertGranit Xhaka to Stay at Sunderland Despite Chelsea Bid
Sky Sports News exclusively confirms that Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka will remain at the club after rejecting an £8 million bid from Chelsea. The 33-year-old Switzerland international was initially tempted by a reunion with former manager Xabi Alonso at Chelsea, but after discussions with Sunderland, he has reaffirmed his commitment. Key factors in his decision include the opportunity to lead Sunderland in the Europa League next season, the club's long-term ambition, and his strong bond with supporters. Sunderland had made clear Xhaka was not for sale. He has two years left on his contract, having joined from Arsenal for £13 million last summer.
SkySports | NewsGranit Xhaka to Stay at Sunderland; Chelsea Transfer Collapses
According to FM reporter Santi Aouna, Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka will remain at Sunderland after his proposed transfer to Chelsea officially fell through. The two clubs failed to reach an agreement on transfer terms, and the deal is now on hold. Xhaka is expected to wear the Sunderland jersey for the upcoming season. The report was sourced from Foot Mercato and published by Hupu soccer on July 3rd.
虎扑 - 足球Chelsea preparing improved £12.5m offer for Granit Xhaka after Sunderland rejection
Chelsea are preparing a second bid for Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka, likely in the region of £10-12.5 million with add-ons, after their initial £8 million offer was rejected out of hand. The midfielder, who cost Sunderland £17.5 million a year ago, is a key target for new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, who previously worked with Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen. The second bid, while improved from the first, is still considered potentially insufficient to convince Sunderland to sell their captain, especially after the initial low offer offended the club. Player pressure from Xhaka's side could facilitate the move. The article suggests Chelsea may regret not starting with a more reasonable bid.
CaughtOffsideChelsea's Pursuit of Granit Xhaka: £8m Offer Rejected, Sunderland Demands Higher Fee
Chelsea have made an initial £8 million offer for Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka, which was rejected. The Athletic reports that new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, who coached Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen, is driving the move. Xhaka, 33, earned £140,000 per week at Sunderland and has a contract until June 2028. Sunderland paid £17.5 million for him in 2025 and value him highly after he led the club to seventh in the Premier League and European qualification. Chelsea's offer is notable as it contradicts their recent strategy of signing only younger players under the BlueCo ownership. Xhaka's age (34 in September) and wage demands pose potential risks. Chelsea also leads the Premier League in yellow and red cards, and Xhaka could bring maturity and game intelligence. The highest fee ever paid by a Premier League club for a 33-year-old outfield player is £12m (Aubameyang to Chelsea in 2022).
虎扑 - 足球Chelsea's £8m bid for Granit Xhaka rejected by Sunderland
Chelsea have had an opening £8m bid for Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka firmly rejected. Sunderland immediately turned down the offer, with reports indicating they have told Chelsea no further bids will be entertained. The 33-year-old joined Sunderland last summer and has been instrumental in their strong Premier League campaign and European qualification. Xhaka previously thrived under current Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, which is driving Chelsea's interest. Sunderland consider the bid too low given Xhaka's leadership and influence, and they have made clear he is not for sale at any price for the upcoming window.
CaughtOffsideSunderland Rejects Chelsea's 'Outrageous' Bid for Granit Xhaka
Premier League club Sunderland has indignantly rejected a transfer offer from Chelsea for their Swiss captain Granit Xhaka, calling the bid 'outrageous.' Chelsea offered 8 million pounds (9.3 million euros) for the 33-year-old midfielder, but Sunderland insists Xhaka is not for sale. Chelsea's new coach Xabi Alonso, who successfully worked with Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen, wants to bring the experienced Premier League professional to strengthen the Blues' young squad. Xhaka only joined Sunderland last summer from Leverkusen for up to 17 million pounds and was immediately appointed captain, leading the team to seventh place and Europa League qualification. His contract runs until 2028, and while reports suggest Xhaka would like to work with Alonso again, Sunderland refuses to negotiate with any club.
BILD - SportSunderland blocks Granit Xhaka's departure to Chelsea
Chelsea, active in the summer transfer window following BlueCo's ownership, targeted Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka. The 33-year-old Swiss international reportedly reached a verbal agreement to join the London club after only one season with Sunderland. However, the transfer faces a major obstacle as Sunderland rejected Chelsea's initial €8 million offer. The Championship club appears determined to retain Xhaka regardless of the price, blocking his departure. This report comes amid Chelsea's other transfer activity, including the surprise sale of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid and further interest from Real Madrid in Enzo Fernández.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertRomano: Xhaka Only Wants Chelsea Move to Reunite with Alonso, Pushes Sunderland for Exit
Fabrizio Romano reports that Granit Xhaka is pushing for a transfer to Chelsea, hoping to reunite with former Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso. Xhaka has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea. However, Sunderland has taken a firm stance, rejecting Chelsea's initial bid of £8 million, which they consider far below the player's value. Sunderland's financial stability and desire to retain their core squad, especially captain Xhaka, are key reasons. The player's persistent pressure to leave could become a decisive factor, potentially softening Sunderland's position or prompting Chelsea to increase their offer.
虎扑 - 足球Chelsea's £8 million bid for Granit Xhaka rejected; Sunderland insists star is not for sale
Chelsea have made an £8 million offer for Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka, which has been immediately rejected. The bid was submitted as new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, who previously coached Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen, seeks to reunite with the Swiss international. However, Sunderland have informed Chelsea that Xhaka is not for sale at any price, describing the offer as 'unacceptable'. Despite the club's stance, reports indicate that Xhaka has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea, creating a transfer standoff. The 33-year-old former Arsenal captain joined Sunderland in 2023 after his Leverkusen contract expired and has been a key player for the Premier League side. It remains unclear whether Chelsea will return with an improved bid or if Sunderland's hardline position will force them to look elsewhere.
Mirror - FootballChelsea's £8m Bid for Granit Xhaka Rejected; Sunderland Refuses to Sell
Chelsea have made an £8 million offer for Granit Xhaka that was immediately rejected by Sunderland, who have declared the midfielder not for sale at any price. The bid was driven by incoming Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, who previously coached Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen, where they won the Bundesliga in 2024. The 33-year-old Swiss international joined Sunderland for £17.5m last season and was instrumental in their surprising seventh-place Premier League finish and European qualification. According to reports, Xhaka has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea, but Sunderland's stance is absolute. This represents a U-turn for Xhaka, who said as recently as last month that he was happy in Sunderland and not thinking about a transfer. He is currently preparing with Switzerland for their World Cup Round of 32 match against Algeria.
Mirror - Transfer NewsChelsea's £8 million bid for Granit Xhaka rejected by Sunderland
Chelsea have had an £8 million bid for Granit Xhaka rejected by Sunderland, who insist the Swiss midfielder is not for sale at any price. The bid was described as 'unacceptable' by Sunderland. Xhaka, 33, joined Sunderland last summer for £17.5 million and was instrumental in their seventh-place Premier League finish and European qualification. New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, who coached Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen, is keen to reunite with the player. Xhaka has reportedly agreed personal terms with Chelsea, but Sunderland's stance remains firm. Xhaka had previously stated he was happy at Sunderland and not considering a transfer, but his reported desire to return to London and rejoin Alonso represents a significant shift. Xhaka is currently with the Switzerland national team at the World Cup, where they face Algeria in the Round of 32.
Mirror - Transfer News