Chelsea ‘agree private phrases’ with ex-Arsenal star in shock switch swoop by Xabi Alonso
Chelsea are reportedly set to sign a former Arsenal midfielder having reportedly agreed personal terms ahead of a potential move to Stamford Bridge under new boss Xabi Alonso
Xabi Alonso could make a shock signing at Chelsea(Image: Getty)
Chelsea are reportedly poised to sign Sunderland star Granit Xhaka as the Blues plan out their return to Champions League football next season.
After a promising start to the campaign, Chelsea’s fortunes nosedived following Enzo Maresca’s departure at the beginning of 2026, and despite reaching the FA Cup final, the two-time European champions ended up finishing ninth.
The Blues had gone into the final day with hopes of clinching a European spot at the very least, but defeat to Sunderland saw them tumble out of continental competition entirely. Now one of their opening moves under new manager Xabi Alonso is to poach a player who proved pivotal in propelling the Black Cats to Europa League qualification last term.
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Former Arsenal captain and midfielder Xhaka made the switch to Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen in summer 2025, with the North East side initially bringing him in to inject some vital experience following their promotion. Few would have expected the dramatic journey Sunderland embarked upon last season, with Xhaka emerging as one of their standout performers.
Nevertheless, it appears he won’t be representing Sunderland in European competition, given the Swiss midfielder is reportedly heading to Stamford Bridge. According to Sky Germany, Chelsea have struck a complete verbal agreement with Xhaka, with a formal deal expected to materialise shortly.
While it may seem like an unusual move on the surface, there could be a strategy behind it. Chelsea have one of the youngest squads in the league – something Xhaka helped cultivate during his stint at Leverkusen.
Back in 2023, he commented: “Bayer 04 signed me to stabilise this young team. I’ll try and do that on every level, also mentally. I don’t want to play dad or the boss. But everyone must be clear that you have to work hard to be successful.”
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s incoming manager had this to say about Xhaka, who will turn 34 in September, while he was at the helm of Leverkusen: “Granit is a real fighter, he showed the big heart he has. He continued to play in a very disciplined and focused manner. He is an aggressive leader and constantly pushes the limits.”
Xhaka is contracted to Sunderland until 2028 and will likely command a substantial fee, with a bid in the region of £25million touted. Chelsea will return for pre-season next month before kicking off their Premier League campaign on August 24.
