Alan Smith says Sunderland fans may feel bitter over Granit Xhaka saga amid Chelsea interest | OneFootball

Alan Smith says Sunderland supporters may feel bitter about the Granit Xhaka transfer saga as Chelsea pursue the Black Cats’ captain.

Despite praising the club and city throughout his debut season, reports suggest Xhaka is keen to reunite with newly appointed Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, with whom he enjoyed success at Bayer Leverkusen.

“They [Chelsea] found out that the young player policy doesn’t work. Sunderland fans will feel, you know, bitter about it, I think, after the speech he made at the end.” He was speaking to BestBettingSites.

It is understood Chelsea have already had an offer of around £eight million rejected, and Sunderland are unwilling to sell their midfield talisman.

“He’s a great pro, and in that dressing room on the training ground, as much as on the pitch, he’d be a great addition. I think he’s got a brilliant work ethic, and he could teach the younger lads a lot on how to go about their business.”

Xhaka is currently away at the World Cup with Switzerland.

Source: Sunderland Echo