Granit Xhaka has informed Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso that he will not be joining the club this summer, opting to remain at Sunderland, according to Gianluca Di Marzio. The decision comes despite a full verbal agreement having been reached on personal terms between Chelsea and the 33-year-old midfielder.
Chelsea, under new manager Alonso, had identified Xhaka as a potential addition to bring Premier League experience to Stamford Bridge. The Blues finished 10th in the Premier League last season and will not participate in European competition, making domestic success a priority for the upcoming campaign. Alonso is reportedly keen to build a squad capable of challenging for Champions League qualification.
Xhaka enjoyed a successful season with Sunderland, revitalizing his career after leaving Arsenal. He has become a key figure for the Black Cats, and the club were reportedly angered by Chelsea’s approach. The initial bid from Chelsea, reported to be £8 million, was quickly rejected by Sunderland officials.
Alonso had previously managed Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen, where the pair were part of a team that won the Bundesliga title in the 2023/24 season. He believed Xhaka’s leadership and experience would be valuable assets for Chelsea. However, Di Marzio reports that Alonso is “disappointed” by the player’s decision to stay at Sunderland.
Fabrizio Romano reported that Chelsea do not believe the story is over and could return with an improved offer, but Xhaka has now definitively communicated his desire to remain with Sunderland. This outcome leaves Alonso searching for alternative options to bolster his midfield ahead of the new season, and highlights the challenges he faces in reshaping the Chelsea squad.
