What Florent Ghisolfi said on big Sunderland sales as Granit Xhaka ‘to join’ Chelsea claims surface | OneFootball

Reports linking Granit Xhaka with Chelsea have sharpened focus on Florent Ghisolfi’s stance on major sales, though Sunderland Echo understands the captain is not for sale and remains under contract until 2028.

Speaking earlier this month, Ghisolfi said he would not fear authorising a big departure if the deal suited the club, while his priority is to keep the core of the squad intact and preserve Premier League experience.

He reflected that last summer’s recruitment lacked top-flight know-how because of market realities, and stressed the aim now is to retain that experience and every starter where possible. He added that if a sale happens, Sunderland would back themselves to replace well.

Xhaka is not just another member of Régis Le Bris’ group. He is captain, a driving figure in the dressing room and central to Sunderland’s impressive return, which ended in seventh place and Europa League qualification.

The club’s stance is therefore firm, they are not inviting offers and can offer European football next season, which Chelsea cannot. Sunderland must also consider PSR, SCR and UEFA squad cost rules, and any sizeable fee for a player who turns 34 next year would trigger a financial discussion.

Ghisolfi illustrated his approach with Lens, selling Loic Bade for €20million a year after signing him on a free, then recruiting Kevin Danso for €5million, who is now at Tottenham. He cautioned that such replacements are not always possible, but said he is confident they can be achieved.

Source: Sunderland Echo