Midfielder Granit Xhaka has reportedly reached a verbal agreement to join Chelsea this summer, with reports suggesting that new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has specifically requested the signing. Xhaka, a former Arsenal star, returned to the Premier League last year, joining Sunderland in a deal valued at approximately £13 million, with an additional £4 million in potential add-ons. The 33-year-old quickly became an integral part of Sunderland’s squad, contributing significantly to their seventh-place finish in the Premier League and securing a Europa League spot.
Xhaka’s Premier League Resurgence
After a seven-season tenure at Arsenal, Granit Xhaka moved to Bayer Leverkusen in 2023. There, he played a crucial role under Xabi Alonso, forming the backbone of a team that achieved an extraordinary 51-game unbeaten streak and secured a domestic double of the German league and cup. His move back to the Premier League with Sunderland last season saw him continue to perform at a high level. Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris lauded Xhaka’s impact, stating it was a privilege to coach a player who is so demanding of himself and, by extension, others. Le Bris noted that Xhaka’s intensity naturally elevates standards within the team and for the coaching staff.
Alonso’s Alleged Influence
According to reports from German outlet Sky Sports Germany and Swiss publication Blick, Xabi Alonso has personally identified Xhaka as a key transfer target for Chelsea. The midfielder has reportedly given his verbal assent to the move, indicating a willingness to reunite with his former manager at Stamford Bridge. This potential transfer hinges on Chelsea and Sunderland agreeing on a transfer fee, with Sunderland understood to be in a strong negotiating position. Xhaka still has two years remaining on his contract with the club, and he is currently captaining Switzerland at the World Cup.
Xhaka’s Perspective on Alonso’s Management
During their successful tenure at Bayer Leverkusen, Granit Xhaka spoke highly of Xabi Alonso’s managerial approach. He described Alonso as a coach who prioritizes merit and performance over a player’s reputation or history. Xhaka highlighted Alonso’s ability to foster a competitive yet supportive environment, where players earn their spot through consistent training and dedication. “He is not a coach that is looking out for the names or status of players, in terms of who is older or younger, or who has played more games,” Xhaka had commented previously. “During the week, he is thinking about who deserves to play at the weekend because they are training well. He gives every player the chance to prove their importance to the team. I think to manage this is so difficult because you have different types of characters and nationalities, different languages. But he has this experience as a player to give confidence to everyone. That’s why we performed like this as well.”
Le Bris’s Praise for Xhaka’s Leadership
Regis Le Bris, Sunderland’s manager, has frequently emphasized the significant influence Xhaka wields within his squad. “It’s a privilege to coach a player like Granit Xhaka, he’s so demanding with himself and he creates the condition to be demanding with others,” Le Bris stated. He further elaborated on Xhaka’s role, explaining that while not always explicit, his presence and high standards create an environment that lifts the performance levels for both players and staff. Le Bris also acknowledged Xhaka’s passionate personality, suggesting that his emotional intensity would serve him well if he were to pursue a managerial career in the future, though he stressed there was no rush for such a transition.
Chelsea’s Transfer Activity
The potential acquisition of Granit Xhaka comes as Chelsea continues to reshape their squad under new leadership. In parallel, the club is reportedly close to finalizing a deal worth approximately €60 million (£51.6 million) for Atalanta’s Italian right-back, Marco Palestra. These moves signal an active transfer window for Chelsea as they aim to build a competitive team for the upcoming seasons.
Key Takeaways
- Granit Xhaka has reportedly agreed personal terms with Chelsea.
- New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is said to have requested the signing.
- Xhaka returned to the Premier League with Sunderland last year for a fee around £13m plus add-ons.
- He was a key player in Alonso’s successful Bayer Leverkusen side.
- Chelsea still need to agree a transfer fee with Sunderland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Granit Xhaka’s current club?
Granit Xhaka currently plays for Sunderland, having joined them last year.
Who is reportedly pushing for Xhaka’s transfer to Chelsea?
Reports indicate that new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has requested the signing of Granit Xhaka.
What is the reported transfer fee for Xhaka?
While Xhaka has verbally agreed personal terms, Chelsea and Sunderland have yet to agree on a transfer fee. His initial transfer to Sunderland was reported to be around £13 million plus add-ons.
Conclusion
The potential transfer of Granit Xhaka to Chelsea represents a significant development, potentially reuniting the experienced midfielder with manager Xabi Alonso. Xhaka’s proven track record in the Premier League and his instrumental role in successful campaigns, both at Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen, make him a sought-after asset. While personal terms are reportedly agreed, the finalization of the deal awaits an agreement between the two clubs on the transfer fee. This move, alongside other reported signings, underscores Chelsea’s ambition to strengthen their squad.
