Granit Xhaka, Sunderland and Chelsea, how a pivotal week changed the picture | OneFootball

Sunderland have wrested back control of the Granit Xhaka saga, with the midfielder reaffirming his commitment after talks despite Chelsea interest.

According to Sunderland Echo, last weekend’s Chelsea move and Xhaka’s openness to reunite with Xabi Alonso fostered resignation on Wearside, so his renewed commitment surprised Chelsea.

Friday proved pivotal. Sunderland rejected an initial £eight million bid, leaving Chelsea to pay roughly threefold more or rely on Xhaka to force the issue. This week’s discussions indicate he will not.

A modest second offer was expected, unlikely to move the needle. The club accept every player has a price, yet here it would be high for sound business reasons.

Opta’s radar underlines how rare Xhaka’s mix of defensive work and elite passing is, with closest matches not fully replicating his output.

Selling now would drain resources needed elsewhere and, even with a fee beyond Chelsea’s early numbers, could leave Sunderland weaker given his off-pitch impact. Keeping him through this campaign, even if market value dips, makes sense.

Sunderland accept they will have to sell at times, but aim to do so on their terms. If Alonso pushes again, or if pre-season shifts Chelsea’s valuation, the club say their stance will remain unchanged.

Internally, Florent Ghisolfi and Régis Le Bris prize unity. Xhaka can be demanding, yet that edge has raised standards and strengthened belief in the club’s potential. Their readiness to move forward suggests he is all in.

Source: Sunderland Echo