Chelsea Prepare €30m Move for Granit Xhaka as Xabi Alonso Targets Reunion

Chelsea are preparing a €30 million bid for Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka after incoming head coach Xabi Alonso reportedly identified the experienced Switzerland international as one of his priority transfer targets.

Alonso, who officially takes charge at Stamford Bridge on July 1, is keen to reunite with Xhaka following their successful spell together at Bayer Leverkusen. The pair enjoyed a remarkable 2023/24 campaign, winning both the Bundesliga and the DFB-Pokal, while also guiding the German club to the UEFA Europa League final.

Xhaka made a surprise move to Sunderland in the summer of 2025 in a deal worth around £17.3 million, but his impact at the Stadium of Light has been nothing short of outstanding. The veteran midfielder quickly established himself as the heartbeat of the Black Cats’ midfield, helping the newly promoted side exceed expectations in the Premier League.

The 33-year-old featured in 34 league matches last season, making 32 starts and contributing one goal and six assists. His leadership, composure, and wealth of experience played a vital role as Sunderland secured a seventh-place finish and qualified for next season’s UEFA Europa League.

Despite being under contract until 2028, Sunderland could soon face a significant test of their resolve if Chelsea formalise their reported interest. Alonso is believed to value Xhaka’s tactical intelligence, leadership qualities and familiarity with his playing philosophy, making the midfielder an attractive option as the Blues look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign.

Whether Sunderland are willing to part with one of their most influential players, however, remains to be seen.