League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

Sunderland rejects Chelsea's £8m bid for Granit Xhaka amid World Cup duty

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 6:00 PM

Last updated Jun 28, 2026

Sunderland rejects Chelsea's £8m bid for Granit Xhaka amid World Cup duty

Summary

Sunderland has declined an £8 million offer from Chelsea for club captain Granit Xhaka. Chelsea approached Sunderland under new manager Xabi Alonso, who has previously worked with Xhaka. The midfielder is currently participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Sunderland's management considers Xhaka vital to their plans after securing a strong finish in the Premier League. The club has made it clear they are not willing to sell him, given his long-term contract until June 2028.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Sunderland turned down Chelsea's initial bid for Granit Xhaka on June 28, 2026.
•Xhaka has a longstanding partnership with Chelsea's manager Xabi Alonso.
•He is currently playing for Switzerland in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
•Xhaka's contract with Sunderland extends until June 2028.
•Sunderland finished seventh in the Premier League last season.

Latest Updates

6:00 PMYahoo Sports — Sunderland turn down £8m bid from Chelsea for Granit Xhaka

What they're saying

"
Sunderland have rejected an opening bid from Chelsea for club captain Granit Xhaka, signalling their firm intent to retain the veteran Swiss international despite strong interest from Stamford Bridge....
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Chelsea FIFA World Cup Soccer