What Xhaka to Chelsea could mean for Sunderland’s squad value against Premier League rivals | OneFootball

Chelsea are expected to make a second bid for Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka, a move that could reshape the Black Cats’ squad value against Premier League rivals.

According to Sunderland Echo, new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is believed to be driving the pursuit after their successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen, and Xhaka is said to be keen to reunite ahead of the new season.

Xhaka remains a Sunderland player after an initial £8m offer was rejected, with the club reiterating the Switzerland midfielder is not for sale. Chelsea are expected to return with around £10m-£12.5m plus add-ons, still shy of the £17.5m Sunderland paid when they persuaded him to return to the Premier League after winning the Bundesliga and the German Cup.

Sunderland, preparing for a first Europa League campaign after finishing seventh last season, are also looking to strengthen this summer.

Current squad valuations place Manchester City at €1.39bn and Arsenal at €1.31bn, with Chelsea on €1.288bn. Sunderland’s squad is valued at €391.18m.

Liverpool are listed just shy of €1bn, while Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United come next at €884.50m and €812.35m respectively. Brighton are at €646.70m and Newcastle United at €628.00m.

Nottingham Forest stand at €592.80m and AFC Bournemouth at €554.38m, with Aston Villa on €522.20m and Crystal Palace on €512.55m. Brentford are at €502.20m and Everton at €434.10m.

Leeds United are at €354.00m and Fulham at €310.20m, with Ipswich Town on €200.70m, Coventry City €199.35m and Hull City €71.55m.

Source: Sunderland Echo