What Florent Ghisolfi said on big-name Sunderland sales amid Granit Xhaka ‘to sign’ for Chelsea claims | OneFootball

Florent Ghisolfi’s summer stance on major departures has fresh relevance amid claims Granit Xhaka could join Chelsea. Sunderland consider their captain not for sale, with the midfielder under contract until 2028.

Fabrizio Romano reports Xhaka could be a surprise Chelsea signing, while Florian Plettenberg says personal terms have been agreed.

Ghisolfi has said he wants to keep the squad intact but would not be afraid to approve a big sale if the deal suited the club. He also stressed that Premier League experience is a priority this summer after last year’s recruits had little of it.

Xhaka is central to Régis Le Bris’ group, serving as captain and a leading voice in the dressing room. His influence helped Sunderland adjust quickly to the Premier League, finishing seventh and qualifying for the Europa League.

That position explains why Sunderland are not encouraging offers. They can also offer European football next season, which Chelsea cannot. Even so, planning must reflect PSR, SCR and UEFA squad cost rules, and a sizeable fee for a player who turns 34 next year would prompt a financial discussion.

Ghisolfi cited work at Lens, where Loic Bade was signed for free then sold after one year for €20million. Kevin Danso replaced him for €5million, is now at Tottenham and has been talked about as a £25million player. He cautioned such deals are not always repeatable but said Sunderland are confident they can replace well if required.

Source: Sunderland Echo