Chelsea’s midfield has been a revolving door since the club parted ways with Kai Havertz and Kai Wagner in the off-season, leaving Mauricio Pochettino with a thin and unbalanced engine room. Now, according to multiple reports, the Blues are eyeing a player whose experience and profile would fit the bill: Sunderland’s Granit Xhaka. Sources have told ESPN that Chelsea are exploring a move for the Swiss international, a player whose career has been defined by both technical quality and managerial frustration.
A midfield profile Chelsea desperately needs
Xhaka, 33, has spent the last two seasons at the Stadium of Light, where he has been a reliable if unspectacular presence in central midfield. His ability to dictate tempo, spray passes and contribute defensively has kept him in demand despite his advancing years, but Sunderland’s financial constraints mean a move could be possible. Chelsea, meanwhile, have been linked with a string of midfielders this summer, including West Ham’s Edson Álvarez and Manchester United’s Manuel Ugarte, but Xhaka’s profile—experience, leadership, and a left-footed option—would slot neatly into Pochettino’s system as ESPN notes.
The Blues’ midfield has lacked a natural organiser since N’Golo Kanté’s departure, and while Conor Gallagher and Cole Palmer have shown promise, neither has the profile of a true metronome. Xhaka’s presence would allow Pochettino to deploy a double pivot, with Gallagher or Moisés Caicedo alongside him, providing both defensive cover and progressive passing. His left foot would also offer tactical flexibility, something that has been missing in recent months.
The Alonso factor: a reunion in the making?
Xhaka’s connection to Mauricio Pochettino is not new. The two worked together at Tottenham Hotspur, where Xhaka was a key figure under Pochettino’s management. Their relationship was defined by a mix of admiration and frustration—Xhaka was often criticised for his long-range shooting and occasional lapses in concentration, but his ability to control games was undeniable. Pochettino’s preference for experienced, technically gifted midfielders is well-documented, and Xhaka fits that mould.
The reunion would not be without irony. Xhaka’s time at Arsenal, where he was a polarising figure under Arsène Wenger and Unai Emery, was marked by highs—including a Europa League final run—and lows, including his infamous red card in the North London derby. His move to Sunderland in 2023 was seen as a chance to rediscover his form, and while he has been a steadying influence, his best days are likely behind him. Still, for a Chelsea side in transition, his experience could be invaluable.
Sunderland’s financial reality and Chelsea’s ambition
Sunderland’s financial situation is well-documented, with the club operating under strict wage structures and transfer budgets. Xhaka’s contract at the Stadium of Light runs until 2026, but with Sunderland’s focus on sustainability, a move could be structured as a loan with an option to buy or a permanent deal with a nominal fee. Chelsea, meanwhile, have been active in the transfer market this summer, with reports suggesting they are willing to spend big to rebuild their squad. ESPN’s sources indicate that a move for Xhaka is being explored, though no agreement has been reached.
The Blues’ financial clout, combined with Sunderland’s need to balance the books, makes this a plausible scenario. However, Chelsea’s recent transfer activity—including the signings of João Pedro and Romeo Lavia—suggests they are prioritising youth and long-term potential. Xhaka, at 33, would represent a short-term solution, but one that could provide stability in a midfield that has lacked it for years.
What it means for Chelsea’s project
Chelsea’s midfield has been a source of frustration this season, with Pochettino often forced to rely on makeshift partnerships. The arrival of Xhaka could change that dynamic, providing a player who can dictate play and offer a different profile to the more energetic options like Gallagher or Caicedo. His experience in big games—including Champions League nights with Arsenal—would also be a valuable asset as Chelsea aim to return to Europe’s premier competition.
However, the Blues must tread carefully. Xhaka’s track record of disciplinary issues and his occasional lack of intensity could prove problematic in a league as demanding as the Premier League. Pochettino’s preference for players who can press and recover possession is well-known, and Xhaka’s style does not always align with that philosophy. Still, in a squad that is still finding its identity, his presence could provide the kind of leadership and stability that has been missing.
What’s next
The next few days will be crucial in determining whether Xhaka becomes a Chelsea player. Sunderland’s financial situation means they may be open to a deal, but Chelsea will need to assess whether Xhaka’s profile fits their long-term plans. If a move is agreed, it could be structured as a loan with an option to buy, allowing Chelsea to evaluate his fitness and impact before committing to a permanent deal.
For Pochettino, the move would signal a clear intent to address Chelsea’s midfield issues, even if it means bringing in an experienced head. The Blues have shown in the past that they are willing to take calculated risks on players with a proven track record, and Xhaka fits that mould. Whether he can rediscover his best form remains to be seen, but for a club in transition, his experience could be a valuable asset.
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