Granit Xhaka has confirmed he turned down the opportunity to join Chelsea during the summer transfer window, insisting he still has “unfinished business” at Sunderland.
Chelsea targeted the experienced midfielder as Xabi Alonso looked to add leadership to his squad. Sunderland rejected an £8million offer, however, and Xhaka has now explained why he was happy to stay at the Stadium of Light.
Xhaka calls Chelsea interest a ‘big privilege’
The 33-year-old acknowledged that attracting interest from a club of Chelsea’s stature at this stage of his career was a major compliment.
“It’s a big privilege that a football club like Chelsea want a player, nearly 34 years old,” Xhaka told the Sports Agents Podcast.
However, the former Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen midfielder stressed that his commitment to Sunderland was never in serious doubt.
“When I signed the contract here, there was a plan behind the scenes, and the plan was to stick to this project, to believe in this project, and to work for this project,” he explained.
Xhaka also made clear that he never viewed Sunderland as a short-term destination, adding: “I didn’t come here for one season.”
Chelsea saw £8m offer rejected
Chelsea’s interest was partly driven by Alonso’s previous relationship with Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen.
The Blues submitted an £8m offer, but Sunderland considered the proposal insufficient and made it clear their captain was not available.
Chelsea subsequently abandoned the pursuit and eventually added experience elsewhere with the signings of Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck.
Xhaka, meanwhile, remains central to Sunderland’s plans after an outstanding first season on Wearside.
Xhaka focused on Sunderland’s European campaign
The midfielder joined Sunderland in 2025 and captained the club to Europa League qualification, making 34 Premier League appearances along the way.
With two years remaining on his contract, Xhaka believes there is still more to achieve.
“I don’t have the feeling that this project is done yet, and this is my motivation,” he said.
“I want to enjoy the European football with this football club with the fans, and hopefully we can get more after this season.”
Sunderland will begin their Europa League campaign against AZ Alkmaar next week, giving Xhaka the opportunity to lead the club into another important chapter.
Key Points
- Granit Xhaka has confirmed Chelsea wanted to sign him during the summer.
- Sunderland rejected an £8m offer and considered their captain untouchable.
- Xhaka described Chelsea’s interest as a “big privilege” but chose to remain loyal to Sunderland.
- The midfielder believes he still has unfinished business at the Stadium of Light.
- Xhaka is now focused on Sunderland’s upcoming Europa League campaign.
What’s Next?
Xhaka will remain a central figure in Sunderland’s plans as they balance Premier League and Europa League football. His immediate focus is helping the Black Cats against Arsenal before their European opener against AZ Alkmaar.
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *