Chelsea appear to have moved swiftly to secure Granit Xhaka’s services, with reports confirming the Blues have struck a verbal agreement on personal terms with the Sunderland midfielder.
The west London club have wasted no time, reportedly lodging a €30 million (£26m) offer with the Black Cats as they look to wrap up the deal.
It’s Xabi Alonso who’s behind this push for Xhaka.
The Spanish manager, set to officially take charge at Stamford Bridge on 1 July, has made the 33-year-old a priority target.
Granit Xhaka could be set to reunite with Xabi Alonso at Chelsea
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REUTERS
Negotiations with Xhaka’s camp progressed remarkably quickly, with the player giving his full approval to Chelsea’s proposed contract package.
The pair know each other inside out, having worked together brilliantly at Bayer Leverkusen during the 2023/24 season.
That campaign was nothing short of extraordinary.
Alonso’s side went the entire Bundesliga season unbeaten, clinching the title along with the DFB-Pokal to complete a stunning domestic double.
Xhaka was absolutely central to that success, featuring in 33 of their 38 league matches as Alonso’s on-pitch general.
Granit Xhaka is reportedly keen on the move to Chelsea
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REUTERS
It’s easy to see why the incoming Chelsea boss is so keen to bring him along for his new adventure in west London.
Their shared history and understanding could prove invaluable as Alonso looks to reshape the Blues’ midfield.
Xhaka is currently away on international duty at the World Cup in North America, where he’s been absolutely superb for Switzerland.
Granit Xhaka and Xabi Alonso enjoyed a close relationship at Bayer Leverkusen
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GETTY
The 33-year-old has captained his nation to top spot in Group B, playing every single minute across all three group stage matches as they secured their place in the knockout rounds.
He’ll be staying stateside for at least another week as Switzerland prepare for the round of 16.
Back on Wearside, Sunderland won’t let their prized asset go without a fight.
Xhaka was named the club’s Player of the Season after a brilliant debut campaign, contributing a goal and six assists across 34 Premier League appearances to help secure a remarkable seventh-place finish and historic Europa League qualification.
