Xhaka Stays at Sunderland | Chelsea F.C. News

Sunderland are holding firm on Granit Xhaka, rejecting Chelsea’s initial £8 million bid despite the 33-year-old’s desire to reunite with Xabi Alonso. The pair enjoyed a successful run together at Bayer Leverkusen, helping them win the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal undefeated in 2023-24 — a role Alonso believes Xhaka could replicate in London. While Sunderland remain adamant he’s not for sale, they’re bracing for the possibility of losing him if tensions rise. Xhaka’s arrival last summer for £17 million has been pivotal in their Europa League qualification. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s interest isn’t limited to Xhaka — they’re also eyeing Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix, who’s currently with France at the World Cup and carries a £50 million price tag. With Chelsea’s offers still far below Sunderland’s valuation, the pressure is mounting at the Stadium of Light. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/8442b018f13007b4