Chelsea are reportedly set to sign Sunderland ace Granit Xhaka as the Blues plot their path back to the Champions League next season. After starting the season well, Chelsea fell off a cliff when Enzo Maresca left in early 2026, finishing the season in ninth place despite the two-time European champions reaching the FA Cup final.
Chelsea went into the final day of the season with at least a chance of securing a spot in Europe, but their loss to Sunderland meant they fell completely out of the European standings. And one of the first moves under new manager Xabi Alonso will be to raid the player who helped drag the Black Cats into the Europa League last season.
Xhaka joined Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2025, with the North East side originally bringing him in to gain much-needed experience following promotion. Few could have predicted the rollercoaster ride Sunderland would have last season, but Xhaka was one of the main contributors.
However, it is unlikely that the Swiss midfielder will get the chance to feature for Sunderland in Europe, as he is reported to be heading to Chelsea. According to Sky Germany, Chelsea have reached a full verbal agreement with Xhaka and are expected to reach an agreement later.
On the surface it feels like an unconventional move, but there may be a method to the madness. Chelsea boast one of the youngest teams in the division, and Xhaka helped develop them during his time at Leverkusen.
In 2023 he said: “Bayer 04 signed me to stabilize this young team. I will try to do that on every level, including mentally. I don’t want to play father or boss, but everyone has to be clear that we have to work hard to succeed.”
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s new manager said of Xhaka, who turns 34 in September, during his time in charge of Leverkusen: “Granit is a real fighter and showed a big heart. He played very disciplined and focused. He is an attacking leader and always pushes the limits.”
Xhaka is under contract with Sunderland until 2028, so he is almost certain to be paid handsomely. Chelsea return to pre-season next month and begin their Premier League campaign on August 24th.
