Xhaka set to stay at Sunderland as Chelsea bid rejected

Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka is set to stay at the club this summer despite firm interest from Chelsea, according to the BBC. The Black Cats have already rejected an £8million bid from the Premier League side for the Switzerland international.

Xhaka, whose Sunderland contract runs until 2028, had been tempted by the chance to reunite with Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso, under whom he played at Bayer Leverkusen. Chelsea had been expected to return with an improved offer after their initial approach was turned down last week.

However, sources at Sunderland have told the BBC that the 33-year-old midfielder is not for sale. Following talks with the club, Xhaka has reaffirmed his commitment to Sunderland for the coming campaign.

Chelsea still keen despite rejection

Chelsea have not entirely given up on landing Xhaka, with sources at Stamford Bridge maintaining that the former Arsenal man remains keen on a switch to west London. It is unclear, though, whether the Blues will table a further bid this summer.

Xhaka was central to Sunderland’s remarkable rise last season, helping the club qualify for European football for the first time in 53 years following his move from Bayer Leverkusen. He made 34 Premier League appearances as Sunderland finished seventh in the table, securing a place in the Conference League.

Decorated career at Arsenal and Leverkusen

The Switzerland captain spent seven years at Arsenal, making 297 appearances for the Gunners, before his 2023 move to Bayer Leverkusen. It was there that he helped the German club win their first-ever Bundesliga title, working under current Chelsea manager Alonso.

Xhaka is currently on international duty at the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, where he has featured in every one of Switzerland’s matches as they progressed to the last 16.