Chelsea target Granit Xhaka chose to stay at Sunderland

Chelsea target Granit Xhaka chose to stay at Sunderland Sunderland AFC midfielder Granit Xhaka (33) is not expected to leave the club this summer, according to Foot Mercato . Having been approached by Chelsea, the Swiss international is keen to continue his time with the Black Cats, with whom he remains under contract until June 2028, despite being tempted by the prospect of reuniting with Xabi Alonso, his former manager at Bayer Leverkusen and the Blues’ newly appointed manager. However, the project presented to him by his management, Sunderland’s European ambitions and the close bond he shares with the supporters at the Stadium of Light have all played a part in his decision to reaffirm his commitment to the side that finished seventh in the most recent Premier League season. Captain of Régis Le Bris’s side in 2025-26, Xhaka started 33 of his 36 appearances for SAFC last season – scoring one goal and providing six assists. Currently on international duty with Switzerland at the World Cup, he helped his side qualify for the round of 16, where the Nati will face either Colombia or Ghana. GFFN | Léo Aschi