Chelsea target Granit Xhaka: Blues weigh Alonso’s plan and Leboeuf’s advice.

Chelsea are pursuing a transfer for Granit Xhaka, a move that would mark a notable shift for the club’s transfer strategy. At 33, Xhaka has continued to perform at a high level, showcasing leadership and experience that many teams value in midfield generals. His blossoming form in Germany with Bayer Leverkusen culminated in a Bundesliga title, and he returned to the Premier League with Sunderland last season, where he helped the club achieve a European finish in their first top-flight campaign back in the division.

Xhaka impressed on his surprise suitor’s first season back among England’s elite, contributing leadership and steadiness that Sunderland leveraged as they challenged for continental football. Chelsea are now reportedly keen to bring in his influence, particularly to bolster a midfield that has seen significant coaching activity and rethinking under the club’s new leadership.

There are strong indications that Chelsea would like to reunite Xhaka with manager Xabi Alonso, who previously coached and admired the Swiss international’s qualities. Personal terms are said to have been agreed, and Xhaka is reported to be eager for a move to Chelsea. Sunderland, however, are expected to fight to retain him, given the potential impact of his presence on and off the field.

Frank Leboeuf, a long-standing Chelsea icon, has publicly championed Xhaka as a prime target for the club. Leboeuf emphasized Xhaka’s consistency, leadership, and fit for Chelsea’s system, making the case that he would fill a crucial gap in the midfield. This viewpoint aligns with a broader assessment within the organisation that Xhaka’s experience and tactical intelligence could be instrumental in stabilizing Chelsea’s formation.

Analysts have speculated about how a midfield built around Xhaka might look. With Enzo Fernandez likely departing, Alonso’s preferred 3-4-2-1 system could feature Xhaka alongside Moises Caicedo in central areas. The configuration would potentially see Cole Palmer and another attacking option behind the striker, with Xhaka and Caicedo operating as a double pivot to provide balance between defensive duties and ball progression.

There are tactical considerations to address if Chelsea move in this direction. Integrating Xhaka into Alonso’s system would require adjustments in wide areas and wing-back roles. Reece James could operate on the right side of a back three alongside defenders such as Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill, while a left wing-back would be essential to balance the complexion of the attack and provide width.

Chelsea are reportedly assessing players who can adapt to Alonso’s system, with friendlies in the offing to help determine the best on-pitch blueprint. As preparations continue, the club will be weighing whether Xhaka’s leadership and on-field intelligence align with their long-term plans and the tactical demands of the manager’s preferred setup.

In summary, a potential Xhaka transfer would represent a strategic shift for Chelsea, prioritizing proven leadership and midfield orchestration. If the deal progresses, it could redefine Chelsea’s midfield dynamics and help implement a system that leverages experience, transition play, and a balanced two-man central pairing. The coming weeks will reveal whether Sunderland can fend off interest or whether Chelsea can finalize terms and complete a move that would inject a new dimension into their midfield.