Xabi Alonso watches as Real Madrid lose against Manchester City (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
Chelsea are hoping to sign Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka in the summer transfer window.
Ben Jacobs says the Black Cats are unlikely to sell the 33-year-old midfielder this summer and will not accept offers for him. However, it remains to be seen how the situation will play out, as the Swiss international “wants to join” Chelsea.
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Granit Xhaka did well for Sunderland
The 33-year-old is a key player at Sunderland and has also worked alongside Xabi Alonso in the past. He was an important player for Alonso during his time at Bayer Leverkusen and the newly appointed Chelsea manager is looking to bring him to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea need more experience and leadership within their squad and the Swiss international could be a very useful signing. Xhaka has been hailed as a “phenomenal” player.
His contract with Sunderland runs until 2028 and they are under no pressure to sell him. Chelsea will need to submit a favorable offer to get a deal done.
The fact that the player wants to join will definitely be an advantage for Chelsea. It remains to be seen whether the player intends to leave the club.
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Sunderland must keep Xhaka
Ideally, Sunderland would want to keep a player of his quality at the club. Not only is he one of their best players, but he’s also a leader in the locker room. The fact that he wants to leave will be a blow to the club.
Sunderland performed very well after promotion last season, securing European football for next season. They need to improve their team and keep their best players. Losing Xhaka would be devastating for them.
Xhaka scored one goal and provided six assists in league play last season.
