Sunderland reject 'unacceptable' Granit Xhaka transfer bid from Chelsea in blow to Xabi Alonso's summer plans
Sunderland has rejected an £8 million transfer bid from Chelsea for midfielder Granit Xhaka, stating the player is not for sale. Chelsea's pursuit, driven by manager Xabi Alonso, marks a departure from their usual strategy of signing younger players.
Why it matters
The rejection highlights the shifting power dynamics in Premier League recruitment and the increasing value of experienced players in modern football.
Chelsea have suffered a significant blow in their summer transfer plans after Sunderland swiftly rejected an opening bid for Granit Xhaka. The Blues reportedly submitted an offer to reunite the midfielder with new manager Xabi Alonso, but Sunderland have deemed it "unacceptable" and insisted that he is not for sale under any circumstances.
Standard sports reporting focusing on transfer negotiations and club statements.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in