Granit Xhaka has emerged as a transfer target for Chelsea.
The driving force behind the Blues' pursuit of the 33-year-old midfielder is incoming manager Xabi Alonso.
Set to begin his role from next week, Alonso is already laying the groundwork for a busy and very important first transfer window.
Why Granit Xhaka wants to sign for Chelsea
Midfield is obviously an area of focus, and Xhaka fits the profile of player Alonso wants to build his team around. Chelsea are prepared to spend up to £35 million on the soon-to-be 34-year-old.
Not only is the Switzerland international incredibly experienced and has the leadership qualities Chelsea have been missing, but he also has a great relationship with Alonso following their success together at Bayer Leverkusen.
The pair won three major honours in Germany, including going unbeaten en route to the 2023-24 Bundesliga title.Â
And, according to Fabrizio Romano (via Metro), is for that reason — along with his preference to live in London — that Xhaka wants to join Chelsea.
Even though Sunderland secured European football next season, ironically at Chelsea's expense, the former Arsenal man still wants to be reunited with Alonso.Â
During his first season at the Stadium of Light, Xhaka, who earns £110,000-per week, has scored one goal and registered seven assists in 36 matches, including 34 in the Premier League.
A lot of transfers taking shape at Chelsea
It isn't just Xhaka who's name is being mentioned along Chelsea's. There has been a hive of transfer activity ever since the window opened.Â
Marc Cucurella has already left for Real Madrid after a £52 million agreement was reached and there remains a possibility that Enzo Fernandez follows him to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Alejandro Garnacho, Marc Guiu and Liam Delap are also contenders to be sold with Malo Gusto wanted by Manchester City, although, the Blues' £75 million asking price is set to scupper any hopes the Citizens had of landing the Frenchman.Â
In terms of incomings, Marco Palestra is on the verge of being unveiled after the Blues struck a deal with Atalanta. Pending a medical, the young right-back will become Alonso's first signing.
Elsewhere, Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix is another player who could make the switch to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea are already locked in talks with their London rivals with the centre-back preparing to make a transfer after the 2026 World Cup.
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