FOOTBALL
By Shreshth Porwal
Posted on July 21, 2026 8:00 pm | Updated on July 21, 2026 3:16 pm Granit Xhaka has rejected a move to Chelsea, with the experienced midfielder choosing to stay at Sunderland despite strong interest from his former manager Xabi Alonso.
Full name: Chelsea Football Club Nickname: The Blues Founded: 10 March 1905 Ground: Stamford Bridge Owner: BlueCo Chairman: Todd Boehly Manager: Xabi Alonso League: Premier League Season 2025-26: 10th position Website: chelseafc.com Chelsea Football Club is one of the most… Read More about CHELSEA
Chelsea showed interest in Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka this summer. The 33-year-old midfielder wanted to reunite with his former boss Xabi Alonso. Sunderland rejected an £8 million bid and insist he is not for sale. The Switzerland international has reaffirmed his commitment to the club. This development marks a key part of Chelsea transfer news
Chelsea Interest in Granit Xhaka Falls Short
Chelsea tried to sign experienced midfielder Granit Xhaka to strengthen their squad. They made an offer but Sunderland turned it down quickly. The 33-year-old played under new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso before and wanted to work with him again. The Black Cats value their captain highly and plan to keep him.
Granit Xhaka showed leadership and quality during his time at Sunderland. Chelsea transfer rumours suggest they may return with a better bid later. The player focuses on his international duties at the World Cup for now. Sunderland remain firm on their stance regarding their key man.
The experienced midfielder helps control games and supports attacks from deep. Chelsea aim to build a strong midfield with reliable options. A deal would have given Xhaka a return to a bigger stage.
Chelsea’s opening bid stood at just £8 million, well below what Sunderland paid to sign him last summer. Sunderland viewed the offer as too low and dismissed it quickly. Xhaka still has two years remaining on his current contract at the club.
Granit Xhaka Stats Reflect Midfield Leadership
Xhaka’s stats for Sunderland in the 2025/26 season, according to FOTMOB:
Competition Appearances Goals Assists Tackles Interceptions
Premier League 34 1 6 92 48
The numbers show that he possesses authority and control in the midfield position. The conversations at Chelsea revolve around the experience and leadership qualities of the player. He has also captained the team of Switzerland many times.
Xhaka is successful at a lot of duels and managing a football match. He has an ability to fit into a different system and overcome challenges along the way. Thus, he has a lot to offer in various teams. Granit Xhaka continues to perform his tasks on the same level.
As reported by BBC, former Newcastle footballer Alan Shearer has commented on the quality of Xhaka this summer. He argued that Chelsea’s opening bid undervalued a player of his standing. Xhaka also captained Arsenal for several seasons before his move to Sunderland.
Sunderland Stance Blocks Granit Xhaka Move
Sunderland made it clear that Granit Xhaka is not for sale this summer. This firm position ends immediate hopes for Chelsea to sign the midfielder. The club rejected the initial bid and reaffirmed their commitment to keeping him. Chelsea transfer rumours indicate they may explore other options in midfield.
Granit Xhaka has two years left on his contract and plays a vital role for Sunderland. A move to Stamford Bridge would have reunited him with Xabi Alonso. Sunderland focus on building their squad for the Premier League. The situation remains closed for now with both sides moving forward.
Chelsea aim to strengthen every area under their new manager. Xhaka would have added experience and control to their midfield. The coming weeks will show if other targets become available. Granit Xhaka earned respect for his leadership that helped Sunderland finish at a higher position in the league.
Author’s Opinion
Granit Xhaka is an experienced midfielder with strong leadership qualities. Chelsea could have benefited from adding him to their squad. His commitment to Sunderland shows loyalty at this stage. Fans will hope for positive squad improvements as the transfer window continues.
READ MORE: Geovany Quenda joins Chelsea as £40m transfer confirmed.
ALSO READ: Jesse Derry to leave Chelsea as Sporting loan move nears.
READ NEXT: Tyrique George set for Everton after £24m deal agreed.
Follow the latest updates from Premier League, La Liga and Champions League, or explore more Football stories, Football Teams & All Football Competitions . Follow more updates on CHELSEA. You can also check Latest Sports News or visit Six Sports for more Football updates.
Shreshth Porwal
Mentioned in this Article