SportFootballGranit XhakaChelsea are pushing to sign Granit Xhaka from Sunderland in a move which would see him reunite with ex-Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso after just one year apart14:50, 28 Jun 2026Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka has reportedly agreed personal terms with Chelsea - weeks after stating that he was 'really happy' he wouldn't be on the move. Xhaka, 33, is understood be pushing to join the Blues, although Sunderland consider him not for sale.‌The midfielder is currently at the World Cup with Switzerland, who've reached the knockout phase and will play Algeria in the round of 32. Xhaka recently talked about how a lack of speculation over his future would allow him to 'fully focus' on the tournament.‌Speaking to Swiss outlet Blick earlier this month, the former Arsenal star affirmed: "For me, the most important thing is that my family is happy. And we are in Sunderland.‌"I'm not even thinking about a transfer. I'm really happy to finally have a summer without any speculation about my future. That's rarely been the case in recent years. This allows me to fully focus on the World Cup."Get the latest World Cup 2026 news in your inbox with our Make Football Great Again newsletterNow, though, Sky Germany report that Xhaka has agreed personal terms with Chelsea, who are in talks with Sunderland over a deal. Xhaka worked with new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso for two years at Bayer Leverkusen, winning the Bundesliga title and DFB-Pokal in 2024, and is keen on a reunion at Stamford Bridge.‌That's after spending less than a year in Sunderland, previously describing the city as a 'second home'. Xhaka was also installed as club captain by manager Regis Le Bris just over two weeks after signing for the Black Cats."It's a bit like home for me," Xhaka added. "The city feels like Basel. Like the St. Johann district where I grew up. You can only perform at your best when you feel comfortable in a place."Should Granit Xhaka leave Sunderland? Have your say in the comments section.‌Xhaka was instrumental under Le Bris last season, as Sunderland finished seventh in the Premier League table. The 33-year-old was expected to lead the Black Cats out in the Europa League next term, but his future has been plunged into uncertainty.Alonso is looking to sign experienced players this summer and midfield is a priority. The ex-Leverkusen boss has also been given the title of manager as opposed to head coach, suggesting that he'll have more power than his predecessors.Article continues belowJoin our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Content cannot be displayed without consentChoose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Granit XhakaChelsea FCSunderland AFCChelsea transfer newsSunderland transfer news