Alan Smith says Sunderland fans will feel bitter over Granit Xhaka saga | OneFootball

Alan Smith says Sunderland supporters will feel bitter about the Granit Xhaka transfer saga.

“They [Chelsea] found out that the young player policy doesn’t work. Surprise, surprise. They’ve gone after a lad [Xhaka] who’s seen it all, having a good World Cup. Sunderland fans will feel, you know, bitter about it, I think, after the speech he made at the end. Looking forward to better times or more good times with Sunderland.” He was speaking to BestBettingSites.

Xhaka repeatedly praised the club and city during his debut season, then delivered a heartfelt address after Europa League qualification in late May. Recent reports suggest he is keen to reunite with newly appointed Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso this summer, having worked together at Bayer Leverkusen.

It is understood that Chelsea have already had a bid of around £eight million rejected by Sunderland, though speculation persists despite the Black Cats’ unwillingness to sell their midfield talisman.

“But he obviously wants to join up with Alonso after their time together at Leverkusen and that unbeaten title-winning campaign. And he would be, he’d be good. 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 at the World Cup with Switzerland.

Source: Sunderland Echo