At 34, Xhaka’s reunion with Alonso could bring Chelsea the control they lack

Granit Xhaka is the target as Chelsea look to add experience to a squad still searching for control. The 34-year-old Switzerland international has been identified by Xabi Alonso as a player of clear value, with the Leverkusen title-winning connection carrying weight in Stamford Bridge corridors. Chelsea’s interest in Sunderland’s midfielder is framed by Alonso’s need for structure. The club have assembled talent in recent windows, yet structure has remained elusive. Xhaka’s metronomic presence—slowing play, accelerating transitions, organising teammates—offers a template Chelsea have lacked. Alonso is keen to add experience and has specifically identified Xhaka as a player of interest. The link to Leverkusen is pivotal: Xhaka was a key figure in Alonso’s Bundesliga-winning side, bringing rhythm and authority to a team that dominated domestically in 2024. Sunderland’s stance complicates any potential deal. The club have no intention of selling and Xhaka remains central to their ambitions, with two years left on his contract. His role in Sunderland’s Europa League qualification after promotion has elevated his status beyond that of a mere asset. Age and fee constraints loom large for Chelsea. Paying a significant sum for a player turning 34 in September would require careful justification, especially when Sunderland are unwilling to entertain offers. The risk of overpaying for sentiment is real.

Chelsea eye Crystal Palace centre-back as Alonso seeks defensive depth

Sunderland’s refusal to sell is rooted in Xhaka’s symbolic value. He is not just a player but a leader in a dressing room that has exceeded expectations. His departure would represent more than a loss on the pitch—it would be a statement about the club’s trajectory. Chelsea’s summer reshuffle extends beyond Xhaka. Marc Cucurella has been sold to Real Madrid, while a deal for Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra has been agreed. Como’s interest in Trevoh Chalobah adds another layer to Alonso’s rebuilding project. Trevoh Chalobah’s valuation—£30 million plus £5 million in add-ons—underscores the club’s willingness to invest in defensive profiles. Alonso’s rebuild appears broad and pragmatic, targeting players who can deliver immediate impact rather than speculative long-term gains. West Ham wingers Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville are also being monitored, suggesting the club’s transfer activity may not be subtle. Alonso’s Chelsea are assembling a squad designed to function under pressure, with experience prized over potential. For Chelsea, Xhaka would not be a signing for resale. He would be a stabilising influence, someone to steady the ship in difficult moments. For Sunderland, resisting his sale is a statement of intent—keeping the architect of their rise in place for the challenges ahead.