Xabi Alonso declines to discuss Granit Xhaka after Chelsea move collapses | OneFootball

Xabi Alonso has declined to discuss Granit Xhaka after Chelsea’s attempt to sign the Sunderland captain fell through.

Sunderland Echo reports that Chelsea explored a deal for the Switzerland international, who was tempted by a reunion with Alonso following their success at Bayer Leverkusen.

Sunderland’s stance remained unchanged. The Black Cats insisted he was not for sale and rebuffed negotiations.

They only signed Xhaka from Leverkusen last summer in a package worth up to around £17million and regard him as central to Régis Le Bris’ plans for a return to European competition.

Xhaka was initially open to talks, then reaffirmed his commitment after discussions with the club. The chance to captain in Europe, alongside Sunderland’s longer-term ambitions, proved influential.

Alonso offered no further detail, saying: "Granit Xhaka? No comment on players who are not here with us." Sunderland now consider the matter closed as Xhaka prepares to lead Le Bris’ side into the 2026/27 campaign.

Source: Sunderland Echo