Sunderland has officially declared that 33-year-old midfielder Granit Xhaka is not for sale, despite reports linking the Switzerland international to a move to Chelsea. While sources within Chelsea have been connected to the player’s representatives, Sunderland maintains there is no financial pressure to offload the captain who helped the club secure a Europa League spot last season. No personal terms have been agreed upon, and Sunderland leadership remains firm in their refusal to negotiate a transfer.
Why is Chelsea targeting an veteran midfielder?
Chelsea’s interest in Xhaka represents a sharp departure from the club’s recent recruitment strategy. According to Premier League data, Chelsea has fielded the youngest squad in the competition for two consecutive seasons and has not selected a player aged 30 or older during that timeframe. Club leadership, including co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali, has acknowledged that the current squad requires adjustments to address concerns regarding dressing-room culture and a perceived lack of on-field leadership. Xhaka, who earned praise for his captaincy at Sunderland last year, fits the profile of a veteran presence the club currently lacks.
Granit Xhaka and Xabi Alonso previously worked together at Bayer Leverkusen, where they secured a Bundesliga title in 2024. This existing relationship is a primary driver for the player’s reported openness to a potential move.
How does this impact the future of Enzo Fernandez?
Chelsea’s pursuit of a new midfielder coincides with mounting speculation regarding the future of Enzo Fernandez. While Chelsea has not received a formal approach for the Argentina international, sources in Spain indicate that Real Madrid holds internal interest in the player. According to these reports, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and manager Jose Mourinho are both supportive of a potential deal. Chelsea currently values Fernandez at approximately £120 million, a figure that would dictate the market for any incoming midfield replacements.
What is the current state of Chelsea’s squad overhaul?
Chelsea’s roster is undergoing significant transition as the club looks to reshape its personnel. Beyond the midfield, the club is set to sign Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra, according to industry reports. The defensive unit has already seen movement, with Marc Cucurella departing for Real Madrid. Meanwhile, several other players—including Alejandro Garnacho, Liam Delap, Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, and Tosin Adarabioyo—face uncertain futures at Stamford Bridge as the club evaluates its long-term options.
FAQ
- Is Granit Xhaka leaving Sunderland? No. Sunderland has stated the player is not for sale and they have no intention of letting him leave.
- Has Chelsea agreed to terms with Xhaka? No. Reports indicate there is no agreement on personal terms between the player and the club.
- Why is Chelsea looking for older players now? Club leadership has admitted that the team needs to improve its recruitment strategy to address leadership gaps and improve team culture.
- What is the status of Enzo Fernandez? He remains a Chelsea player with a valuation of £120 million, though Real Madrid has been linked to potential interest in him.
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