Premier League rivals Sunderland have issued a definitive warning to Chelsea, telling the Blues to abandon any hopes of signing captain Granit Xhaka this summer. Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has declared the matter closed, insisting the 33-year-old Switzerland international is committed to the Stadium of Light.
Le Bris shuts down Chelsea pursuit
Le Bris, speaking in his first press conference since Chelsea's initial bid, made it clear that Xhaka is not for sale. “No, this topic is closed,” the French manager said. “He has been really clear about his future. He loves Sunderland, he wants to stay in Sunderland. He wants to make the future of Sunderland. He is a good captain. A great leader.”
Chelsea had earlier made a surprise £8million bid for Xhaka, who joined Sunderland last summer from Arsenal. The bid was swiftly rejected, but reports suggested Xhaka was tempted by a reunion with former Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso, under whom he won the Bundesliga title. However, Xhaka has since reaffirmed his commitment to Sunderland.
Xhaka's impact at Sunderland
Xhaka was instrumental in Sunderland's surprise seventh-place finish last season, which secured European qualification. He became an instant hit at the Stadium of Light, providing leadership and experience. The former Arsenal star spent seven years in London before moving to the north east.
Sunderland's cautious transfer approach
Le Bris also cautioned fans to be patient with the club's recruitment, which contrasts sharply with last summer's overhaul. Sunderland signed 14 new players following promotion from the Championship. This summer, only full-back Thomas Meunier has arrived so far. “It’s going to be quiet. Under the radar, right? Because I think we are working hard behind the scenes, and it’s really important to be quiet because otherwise, it’s a mess,” Le Bris said. “And we are looking at probably a different transfer window if you compare with last season. We had to sign 14 new players. That won’t be the case this year. We’ll see what will happen.”
