Granit Xhaka ‘to join’ Chelsea? Sunderland stance is that he is not for sale | OneFootball

Sunderland Echo understands Sunderland consider Granit Xhaka not for sale amid strong reports of Chelsea exploring a summer move for the captain.

Xhaka excelled in his first season on Wearside after arriving from Bayer Leverkusen last year, quickly assuming a leadership role and driving a remarkable Premier League campaign.

Elsewhere it is claimed Chelsea are pushing for a surprise deal, with Xhaka keen on returning to London and reuniting with Xabi Alonso. Some reports add that personal terms are agreed, contact has been made with Sunderland and negotiations are ongoing.

The club’s position is clear, they are under no pressure to sell and Xhaka is contracted until 2028. He is currently away with Switzerland at the World Cup.

Sunderland can offer Europa League football next season, while Chelsea cannot. Xhaka was drawn to the long-term project on Wearside and is central under Régis Le Bris.

Any huge bid would trigger a financial calculation. Xhaka turns 34 next year and a package around €30 million, roughly £25.5 million, would be significant from a trading perspective.

PSR, SCR and UEFA squad cost rules also apply, and a sizeable profit on a soon-to-be 34-year-old could strengthen finances. Florent Ghisolfi has indicated he is willing to sell if a deal suits Sunderland.

There is also the Alonso factor. Xhaka left Leverkusen after Alonso moved to Real Madrid and probably would not have done so had he stayed. For now, this is one to watch.

Source: Sunderland Echo