Xabi Alonso is putting intense pressure on Chelsea’s management to secure the signing of Granit Xhaka, in a surprising turn that promises to shake up this summer’s transfer market. The Swiss international, a key figure in Sunderland’s midfield last season, has reportedly agreed personal terms with the London club, while the teams are now negotiating the transfer fee, according to information provided by journalist Florian Plettenberg.
The connection between Xhaka and Alonso dates back to the historic campaign of Bayer Leverkusen in 2023/24, when, under the guidance of the Spanish coach, the Swiss midfielder was crucial in securing the club’s first Bundesliga title. Now, with Alonso leading Chelsea’s project, the coach wants to rely on the Swiss national team’s captain again, confident that his competitive profile and international experience can serve as a foundation for the renewal of the Blues’ squad. Xhaka, 33, arrives at Stamford Bridge after a brilliant season in England, where he led Sunderland to qualification for the Europa League — precisely at the expense of Chelsea, which missed out on European competitions.
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The impact of Granit Xhaka’s potential arrival in London extends beyond just strengthening the midfield. The Blues, who have just secured the signing of Marco Palestra from Atalanta, are clearly betting on experienced players with proven track records at the highest level, countering the recent trend of investing primarily in young prospects. For a team that fell short of expectations in the Premier League and missed out on European qualification, Xhaka’s addition represents not only a sporting enhancement but also a signal of renewed ambition and a desire to regain prominence both in England and abroad.
The influence of Sunderland’s midfielder last season is undeniable: he was the player with the most assists (six) for the Black Cats, having registered seven direct goal involvements, surpassed only by two teammates. In addition to his offensive numbers, he also stood out for his defensive work, leading in accurate passes and long balls per game, and ranking second in big chances created and key passes. These statistics highlight Xhaka’s profile as a complete midfielder, capable of balancing the midfield, organizing ball progression, and protecting the defense — characteristics that were often lacking in Chelsea’s performance last season.
In the context of the restructuring of the blue squad, Xhaka is shaping up to be the ideal partner for Moisés Caicedo in the double pivot of midfield, offering greater ball progression ability and experience in high-pressure games. A former Arsenal captain and a respected figure in European football since his time at Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2012, the Swiss player shows no signs of physical or tactical decline, remaining one of the most reliable midfielders in the Premier League.
Should the agreement be confirmed, Xhaka will become Chelsea’s second signing of the summer, with the official announcement of Marco Palestra imminent. Sources close to the club reveal that Alonso is determined to build a core group of experienced players capable of leading the young talents in the squad and restoring Chelsea’s winning mentality from recent times. After the deal is finalized, the Blues are expected to expedite Xhaka’s integration into pre-season, anticipating the midfielder’s importance in preparing for the new campaign.
For Xhaka, this transfer represents a return to the top of English football, now with the mission of making Chelsea a feared and consistent team, capable of competing for the main domestic and European objectives. For Alonso, it is the opportunity to rekindle a partnership that has already borne fruit in Germany and could transform Chelsea’s midfield into one of the most consistent in the Premier League. As the squad takes shape, attention now turns to the next targets in the market, in a transfer window that promises to keep London fans on their toes.
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