Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka has broken his silence on speculation linking him with a summer move to Chelsea, stating that his focus remains on the World Cup with Switzerland. The 33-year-old midfielder, currently representing his nation at the tournament in Canada, was asked about the transfer rumours following Switzerland's 2-0 victory over Algeria.
Xhaka's Response to Chelsea Links
When questioned by Swiss outlet Blick about a potential move to Stamford Bridge, Xhaka replied: "That's not my job. I have my management for that. I want to concentrate fully on the World Cup." The midfielder's comments come after Sunderland rejected an opening £8 million bid from Chelsea last week, with the club insisting he is not for sale. However, according to football.london, Chelsea are preparing a new and improved offer worth £10 million plus add-ons.
World Cup Progress and Milestone
Xhaka helped Switzerland secure a spot in the Round of 16 after goals from Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye either side of half-time sealed a deserved win over Algeria. The victory set up a tie against either Colombia or Ghana. Reflecting on the match, Xhaka said: "At the beginning, we were almost over-motivated; we needed that goal to help us. At halftime, we had to address things that weren't good – too many long balls, we couldn't hold onto the ball, and we weren't playing the game that makes us strong. The second half was then more controlled. We're all old enough to be honest with each other. Even though we were leading 1-0, our game wasn't perfect. We addressed it, changed things, and consequently played a good second half."
During the game, Xhaka earned his 150th cap for Switzerland. Reacting to the milestone, he said: "The team cheered me on beforehand, and I told them they would make the day special if we advanced. 150 games for the country where I was born and raised. Being able to wear the red jersey makes you proud. It's all the more wonderful that we played well and progressed."
Sunderland's Summer Activity
Sunderland, who finished seventh in the Premier League last season, have yet to make a first-team signing this summer. However, several players have departed the Stadium of Light. Dan Neil left at the end of his contract earlier this week and has since joined Rangers, while Nazariy Rusyn, Dennis Cirkin, and Bertrand Traore are among others who have left on free transfers. Additionally, winger Eliezer Mayenda is close to completing a £22 million move to Ligue 1 side Rennes after the clubs agreed a deal; Mayenda has been given permission to travel to France for a medical.
