Transfer: Chelsea target Xhaka reunion with Alonso

Chelsea are considering a move for Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka as new manager Xabi Alonso looks to strengthen his squad with experienced players ahead of the new season.

The Switzerland international has emerged as one of the midfield options being assessed by Chelsea, although no formal contact has been made with Sunderland and the Premier League club are not interested in selling the 33-year-old.

Xhaka only joined Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen for £13 million last summer and played a key role in helping the club secure a Europa League place after returning to the Premier League.

Chelsea seek experience in midfield

Chelsea’s recruitment strategy is understood to include adding experienced Premier League players to a youthful squad with an average age of 23.8.

Xhaka, who turns 34 in September, fits that profile after spending seven seasons at Arsenal before moving to Bayer Leverkusen in 2023.

The midfielder worked under Alonso in Germany, where he helped Leverkusen win the Bundesliga title before completing his move to Sunderland.

Chelsea are reportedly mindful of his age and are unlikely to pay a significant transfer fee should negotiations progress.

Sunderland unwilling to sell

Sunderland have no plans to part with one of their key players after an impressive first season back in the Premier League.

Xhaka made 34 league appearances during the 2025-26 campaign, scoring once and providing six assists as Sunderland secured European football.

The experienced midfielder also played an important role in Leverkusen’s success, making 99 appearances before leaving the Bundesliga.

Before joining the German club, Xhaka made 297 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 23 goals and establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most experienced midfielders.

He was previously linked with a return to London before leaving Leverkusen, with West Ham among the clubs credited with an interest, but ultimately chose to join Sunderland.

Chelsea’s interest is at an early stage, with no discussions yet held between the two clubs and Sunderland maintaining that the former Arsenal captain is not available for transfer.