Story perspectives

Chelsea chase Xhaka while Sunderland set sights on Bogarde

6/28/2026

Summary

Chelsea Target Xhaka

Chelsea are interested in signing Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka.
Xhaka, 33, is playing for Switzerland at the World Cup after helping Sunderland finish seventh and reach Europa League.
Sunderland have not received a formal Chelsea approach and may retain Xhaka, Chronicle Live reports.
Sunderland target Aston Villa midfielder Lamare Bogarde as a replacement.
Both clubs expect to compete for Bogarde and are ready to pay a fee.

Summary

Chelsea Shifts Focus

Chelsea received £51.8 million from Marc Cucurella’s sale, replenishing the transfer budget.
BlueCo owners are re-evaluating their youth-first recruitment after a 10th-place finish, seeking seasoned leaders.
With the oldest outfield player Tosin Adarabioyo only 28, Chelsea target experienced midfielders like Granit Xhaka.
Chelsea agreed a £43 million deal for Marco Pelestra and are negotiating Maxence Lacroix for about £35 million, indicating a shift to immediate-impact signings.

History

Historical Context

Roman Abramovich bought Chelsea in July 2003, paying about £140 million and assuming £80 million of debt. He then launched a £100 million summer spending spree that brought players such as Claude Makélélé and Hernán Crespo, turning the club from a mid-table side into a title challenger. The move reflected a broader Premier League shift toward big-money spending to compete for titles.

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Chelsea Target Xhaka

Chelsea are interested in signing Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka.
Xhaka, 33, is playing for Switzerland at the World Cup after helping Sunderland finish seventh and reach Europa League.
Sunderland have not received a formal Chelsea approach and may retain Xhaka, Chronicle Live reports.
Sunderland target Aston Villa midfielder Lamare Bogarde as a replacement.
Both clubs expect to compete for Bogarde and are ready to pay a fee.

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