'Topic is closed': Chelsea learn final transfer decision after bid for ex-Arsenal star | OneFootball

Xabi Alonso had been keen on a reunion with Premier League legend

The Blues had registered an interest in the Sunderland midfielder this summer, with Xabi Alonso keen on a reunion with his former Bayer Leverkusen captain.

Standard Sport understands that the west Londoners lodged an £8million to try and sign the former Arsenal man, but it was rebuffed by the Black Cats, who issued a hands-off warning to their Premier League rivals.

The Swiss was keen on a return to London, but saw the move fall apart with no agreement between the two clubs.

Now, it seems as though he will remain at the Stadium of Light once and for all, with Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris doubling down on the club’s stance.

Not going anywhere: Granit Xhaka

PA

He told reporters following his side’s 4-2 friendly defeat by Liverpool on Saturday: "No, this topic is closed.

“He has been really clear about his future. He loves Sunderland, he wants to stay in Sunderland. He wants to make the future of Sunderland. He is a good captain. Great leader."

Xhaka has spent just one season on Wearside since his return to England.

Last term, he played 34 games in the Premier League, and he made six appearances at the World Cup for Switzerland, who reached the last 16 in North America.

Under Alonso at Leverkusen, Xhaka wore the captain’s armband, and led die Werkself to a maiden Bundesliga title in 2023/24, where Bayer went unbeaten and reached the Europa League final.