Sunderland transfers: Xhaka and Mayenda latest and summer strategy | OneFootball

Sunderland have rejected an initial Chelsea offer of eight million pounds for Granit Xhaka, deemed well below their valuation. According to Sunderland Echo, another bid is expected, though it is unclear if Chelsea will reach a fee that shifts the stance.

Many believe he may leave, but Sunderland neither undersell core assets nor usually block exits, so it could still go either way.

Incomings have been slow, with this year running late due to the World Cup and a later Premier League start, many players completing international duty first. Florent Ghisolfi views this as a longer, quality led window.

Sunderland are juggling options in key roles, including interest in Óscar Mingueza, whose profile is similar to Lutsharel Geertruida, still a target.

Work is under way to trim the wage bill and move on those outside Régis Le Bris's plans, complicated by pay rises triggered by promotion.

The core is expected to remain intact. Le Bris has said the opening day XI could feature most of those who ended last season strongly, while Xhaka's situation remains unresolved.

Eliezer Mayenda is increasingly expected to depart, probably permanently. Talks continue, with Stade Rennais seen as early frontrunners. He wants regular football, unlikely given Brian Brobbey's form, and a suitable fee could aid Sunderland from an SCR perspective and firm up their stance on first choice players.

Sunderland remain ambitious but must work within UEFA and Premier League rules they believe they can meet. Expect prudent, eye catching additions, potentially supported by occasional sales.

Source: Sunderland Echo