Chelsea to return with improved second bid for Granit Xhaka amid Sunderland resistance | OneFootball

Chelsea are set to lodge an improved second bid for Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka, with Xabi Alonso pushing the move. Sunderland Echo understands that the Black Cats plan to hold their line.

The London club had an opening offer of around £eight million rejected. A new proposal is likely to land at £10 million to £12.5 million plus add-ons.

Xhaka is believed to be keen, and Alonso is eager to work with the experienced midfielder. Even so, Chelsea’s hierarchy are reluctant to overpay for a 33-year-old.

Sunderland only signed Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen last summer in a package worth about £17.5 million and consider him central to Régis Le Bris’ plans. He was made captain on arrival and quickly became highly influential on and off the pitch.

That is why Sunderland do not want to be drawn into a sale, particularly at a figure that would represent a sizeable loss. Any agreement would require a significant shift in the numbers, and for now the club’s position is unchanged.

Sunderland’s outstanding league campaign earned a Europa League place at Chelsea’s expense, adding intrigue to this pursuit. Chelsea missed out on Europe and were beaten twice by the North East side last season.

Source: Sunderland Echo