Shock Transfer Bid: Chelsea Eyes Sunderland's Granit Xhaka
Chelsea is pursuing experienced midfielder Granit Xhaka, with incoming manager Xabi Alonso keen to bring his former Bayer Leverkusen player to Stamford Bridge. This move signifies a shift in Chelsea's transfer strategy, aiming to balance their young squad with veteran leadership. However, securing a deal with Leverkusen, who are unwilling to sell Xhaka, may prove challenging.Chelsea are actively exploring a deal to acquire midfielder Granit Xhaka, a move reportedly championed by incoming manager Xabi Alonso. Alonso, who is not officially set to begin his role until July 1, has a close working relationship with the 33-year-old Xhaka, viewing him as a crucial, experienced figure capable of instilling leadership within Chelsea's notably young dressing room. The club's current oldest player, Tosin Adarabioyo, is 28, reflecting Chelsea's recent policy of signing top young talent on long-term contracts. However, sources indicate that the club's ownership plans to adjust this model following a disappointing 10th-place finish last season, aiming to back Alonso by giving him a stronger voice in transfer decisions, particularly for seasoned players like Xhaka.
While Xhaka is understood to be open to a potential transfer to Chelsea, a deal between the clubs could present significant challenges. Xhaka's current club, Bayer Leverkusen, where he previously worked with Alonso and played a pivotal role in their historic 2023-24 Bundesliga title win, is reluctant to sell him. He is a popular figure at the German club and is currently under contract until 2028. Furthermore, Chelsea is reportedly disinclined to pay a substantial fee for a player who will turn 34 in September, adding another layer of complexity to the negotiation process.
Xhaka's career trajectory includes a seven-year stint at Arsenal before his move to Bayer Leverkusen. He is currently representing Switzerland at the World Cup, showcasing his continued high level of play on the international stage. His experience and recent success under Alonso at Leverkusen are key factors in Chelsea's interest.
In related transfer news, Chelsea has reportedly rejected an offer from Italian side Como of £22 million, plus add-ons, for defender Trevoh Chalobah. The west London club is seeking a fee of £35 million for Chalobah's services. Additionally, Chelsea is said to be nearing a deal for Atalanta full-back Marco Palestra, while Manchester City is reportedly monitoring Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, indicating broader activity in the summer transfer window.