Sunderland’s valuation clash blocks Chelsea’s £8m Xhaka bid

Sunderland view Granit Xhaka, the former Arsenal midfielder, as a key midfield asset, having paid £17m for him and still valuing him at around £11m after three years. At 34, Xhaka is in the latter stages of his career but remains central to Sunderland’s plans, with a two‑year contract still in force.

Sunderland rejected an £8m bid from Chelsea for Xhaka, branding the offer disrespectful and insulting. Kieran Gill reported that sources close to Sunderland describe the £8m offer as insulting. The club said the approach lacked respect for both the player and Sunderland.

Sunderland indicated there is no intention to sanction Xhaka’s exit and that no further offers will be considered. The club insists the player’s two‑year contract should be honoured.

James Benge highlighted that Xhaka has proven worth more than the £17m Sunderland originally paid. Consequently, Chelsea’s £8m proposal would force Sunderland to record a loss on the player’s books.

Fabrizio Romano reported that Chelsea is preparing a new approach to secure Xhaka despite the rejected bid. Romano also noted that Xhaka wishes to join Chelsea and reunite with former teammate Xabi Alonso. Chelsea appears to view the £8m figure as a fair valuation for the midfielder.

Sunderland’s stance that the offer is insulting and their refusal to entertain further bids present major obstacles to any transfer. The next steps hinge on whether Chelsea adjusts its valuation or Sunderland changes its position, leaving Xhaka’s future uncertain.