Sunderland have not only rejected Chelsea's opening offer for Granit Xhaka but warned their Premier League rivals the midfielder is not for sale 'at any valuation', according to reports.
Xabi Alonso's influence and Xhaka's stance
Xabi Alonso is pushing Chelsea to sign former Arsenal captain Xhaka, who he managed at German club Bayer Leverkusen. Xhaka is believed to be keen to move to Stamford Bridge, with reports suggesting he has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea. However, Sunderland made it clear from the start of the transfer saga that Xhaka, who joined them last summer ahead of their return to the Premier League, was not for sale.
Chelsea's bid deemed 'lack of respect'
That did not prevent Chelsea from submitting an official bid for Xhaka worth £8m. The Athletic report that Chelsea felt the proposal was 'fair' given Xhaka turns 34 in September, but Sunderland instantly rejected the approach and regarded it as a 'lack of respect'. It is claimed Sunderland told Chelsea in no uncertain terms that 'no further offers would be entertained', hoping that the Blues will now 'respect' their position.
Xhaka's potential impact at Chelsea
While Xhaka would be far from a glamourous signing, he would provide a level of experience and leadership that has been badly missed at Chelsea in recent seasons. The Blues finished just 10th in the Premier League last term – two points behind newly-promoted Sunderland – failing to qualify for any European competition. Enzo Maresca started the season as Chelsea's manager but both he and his replacement Liam Rosenior were sacked, with Alonso now set to take over from the start of July.
Xhaka's recent career and Sunderland success
Xhaka captained Arsenal during his seven-year spell at the Emirates Stadium before joining Alonso at Leverkusen in 2023. The midfielder, currently at the World Cup with Switzerland, helped Alonso's Leverkusen win the Bundesliga title before moving back to the Premier League last season. Sunderland were among the favourites to be relegated but Xhaka played a key role in the Black Cats not only avoiding the drop but finishing in the top-half of the table. Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney was among those to label Xhaka one of the signings of the season.
