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 linked with a reunion with former Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso, who recently took charge at Stamford Bridge, and had reportedly agreed personal terms with the Blues.
However, Sunderland rejected Chelsea's £8 million bid, insisting Xhaka was not for sale. According to Sky Sports, Xhaka has chosen to stay and lead the Black Cats into the Europa League next season, with his strong relationship with the fan base playing a significant role in his decision.
Xhaka joined Sunderland last summer from Leverkusen for £17.5 million, where he had won the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal under Alonso. Appointed captain by manager Regis Le Bris, he became an instant favourite, anchoring the midfield as Sunderland finished seventh in the Premier League and qualified for Europe. He has described the city as a 'second home'.
Speaking to Swiss outlet Blick, Xhaka said: 'It's a bit like home for me. The city feels like Basel. You can only perform at your best when you feel comfortable in a place. For me, the most important thing is that my family is happy. And we are in Sunderland.' He added that he was not thinking about a transfer, allowing him to focus on the World Cup.
Currently away with Switzerland at the World Cup, Xhaka helped them reach the round of 16 after a 2-0 win over Algeria. Switzerland will next face the winner of Colombia vs Ghana in Vancouver.
