'His legacy will be tainted' - fans on Chelsea's 'disrespectful' Xhaka pursuit

Sunderland fans have been reacting to the news the Black Cats have rejected an £8m bid from Chelsea for captain Granit Xhaka. Xhaka is known to be open to a reunion with former manager Xabi Alonso at Stamford Bridge, having won the Bundesliga together at Bayer Leverkusen in 2024. Personal terms have not yet been agreed with Chelsea , however. Supporter Eric told BBC Radio Newcastle: "The first emotion is one of sadness. It's very sad that such a wonderful relationship will be soured and the most important and influential player we've signed in my lifetime will be leaving. "His legacy will be tainted. Maybe in a few years we'll look back and forgive him a little bit for what he wants to do now, but I'm sad. I'm disappointed that he's having his head turned. "The strongest emotion is concern because I think he's bigger than just the player on the pitch. He has turned Sunderland into something I could never have believed. "We just have to trust what Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and the leadership team are doing." Another Black Cats fan, Arthur, focused his attention on the Blues: "They've been disrespectful to Sunderland and offered a paltry £8m. "They cannot rate him very highly if only offering £8m. If you want good, you pay top dollar. Xhaka is top dollar." How has Chelsea's chase for Xhaka left you feeling? Would there be any price you'd sell him for? Get in touch with your views here [BBC] Hit play at the top of this post to hear the full discussion on BBC Radio Newcastle, or listen on BBC Sounds here