Chelsea have expressed interest in signing Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka, a key player under Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, as the manager seeks to bolster his squad with experience.
Xhaka's Move to Sunderland and World Cup Involvement
Xhaka, who has two years remaining on his contract, joined Sunderland last summer and played a pivotal role in their promotion to the Premier League and subsequent qualification for the Europa League. The 33-year-old Switzerland international is currently at the World Cup with his national team, who have advanced to the round of 32.
Alonso's Interest in Reuniting with Former Player
According to sources, Alonso is keen to add experience to Chelsea's squad and has identified Xhaka as a player of interest. The midfielder remains close with Alonso, who led Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title in 2024. However, Sunderland are determined not to sell and are expected to resist any offers.
Chelsea are unlikely to pay a high fee for Xhaka, who turns 34 in September. The club's transfer activity is expected to be busy this summer, with Marc Cucurella already sold to Real Madrid and potential interest in Enzo Fernández from the Spanish club.
Other Chelsea Transfer News
Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra. Meanwhile, they are fielding interest in Trevoh Chalobah from Como. Chalobah, part of England's World Cup squad, is valued at £30m plus £5m in add-ons. Chelsea are also monitoring West Ham wingers Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville.
