Granit Xhaka ‘in talks’ with Chelsea as Sunderland stance remains he is not for sale | OneFootball

Granit Xhaka has been linked with a surprise summer move to Chelsea, with high-profile reports pointing to a potential deal. Fabrizio Romano has said Chelsea could make the midfielder a surprise signing, tying it to a reunion with Xabi Alonso and a return to London, while Florian Plettenberg claims a full verbal agreement on personal terms and initial contact with Sunderland.

Sunderland Echo understands Sunderland would not welcome offers for their captain at this stage and consider him not for sale. The Black Cats are under no pressure to sell, with Xhaka contracted until 2028.

The Switzerland international excelled in his first year on Wearside after arriving from Bayer Leverkusen, quickly taking the armband and driving an impressive Premier League campaign.

Xhaka is currently away with Switzerland at the World Cup. Sunderland also have Europa League football next season, which Chelsea do not, and it was widely reported he joined for the long-term project on Wearside.

There would still be a financial calculation if a sizeable bid arrived. A package of around €30 million, roughly £25.5 million, would be significant given PSR, SCR and UEFA squad cost rules and with Florent Ghisolfi open to sales if the deal suits the club. Plettenberg adds that negotiations are ongoing and the next step rests with the clubs.

Source: Sunderland Echo