Overview
- Xhaka publicly said Wednesday that he has decided to remain a Sunderland player for the 2026/27 season and cited family and a desire to ‘make history’ with the club.
- Sunderland rejected an opening £8 million approach from Chelsea and have told suitors their captain is not for sale, leaving any further offers unresolved while Xhaka finishes World Cup duty.
- Reports said Chelsea view Xhaka as a target for manager Xabi Alonso because of their previous work together at Leverkusen, but no new bid has been confirmed.
- Xhaka captained Switzerland in the World Cup round of 16, scored the first penalty in the shoot-out against Colombia and drew criticism from Swiss outlets for a late defensive error and an emotional on-field reaction.
- Sunderland bought Xhaka last summer for around £17–17.5 million and his retained contract plus the club’s public stance give Wearside commercial and negotiating leverage going into the transfer window.