Granit Xhaka has reportedly agreed personal terms with Chelsea, just weeks after stating he was 'really happy' to remain at Sunderland. The 33-year-old Sunderland captain is pushing to join the Blues, although Sunderland consider him not for sale.
World Cup Focus Amid Transfer Talks
Xhaka is currently at the World Cup with Switzerland, who have reached the knockout phase and will face Algeria in the round of 32. Earlier this month, he told Swiss outlet Blick: 'For me, the most important thing is that my family is happy. And we are in Sunderland. I'm not even thinking about a transfer. I'm really happy to finally have a summer without any speculation about my future. That's rarely been the case in recent years. This allows me to fully focus on the World Cup.'
Reunion with Xabi Alonso
According to Sky Germany, Xhaka has agreed personal terms with Chelsea, who are in talks with Sunderland over a deal. Xhaka worked with new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso for two years at Bayer Leverkusen, winning the Bundesliga title and DFB-Pokal in 2024, and is keen on a reunion at Stamford Bridge.
Sunderland Captaincy and Impact
Xhaka spent less than a year at Sunderland, where he was installed as club captain by manager Regis Le Bris just over two weeks after signing. He described the city as a 'second home', saying: 'It's a bit like home for me. The city feels like Basel. Like the St. Johann district where I grew up. You can only perform at your best when you feel comfortable in a place.'
Xhaka was instrumental under Le Bris last season, helping Sunderland finish seventh in the Premier League table. He was expected to lead the Black Cats in the Europa League next term, but his future is now uncertain.
Chelsea's Summer Plans
Alonso is looking to sign experienced players this summer, with midfield a priority. The ex-Leverkusen boss has been given the title of manager rather than head coach, suggesting he will have more influence than his predecessors.
