Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso have reportedly set his sights on making a formal move for Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka.
The Switzerland international played an integral part in Bayer Leverkusen's historic Bundesliga title success under Xabi Alonso and the Spaniard seems keen to reunite with the midfielder.
Together in 2023/24, Alonso and Xhaka provided the managerial and player experience that saw Bayer Leverkusen become the first German top-flight side to go a season unbeaten and also set an overall European record of 51 games without defeat across all competitions.
According to journalist Luca Cerchione, Chelsea have tried to test Sunderland's resolve with an initial bid of £25m.
While a big transfer fee may be viewed as excessive by some for a 33-year-old, Alonso may see Xhaka's experience as vital for a side that mainly consists of young players with lots of potential.
Xhaka quickly adapted to life back in the Premier League last season and was crucial to the Black Cats not only avoiding the drop, but securing European football for the first time in 42 years.
The midfielder is currently representing Switzerland at his fourth World Cup, which suggests this transfer story may rumble on as the nation's record appearance holder focuses on trying to lead the Swiss to the latter stages of the tournament.
