New manager Xabi Alonso identified Xhaka as an ideal option to add experience and leadership to the Chelsea squad. However, Sunderland stood firm on not parting with their captain, and Chelsea chose not to press further in order to preserve strong relations with their fellow Premier League club.
Sunderland also reportedly have interest in Chelsea’s Marc Guiu. The Spaniard had previously been loaned to Sunderland, but Chelsea recalled him before the close of the summer window. Guiu, who saw limited cup-time under Liam Rosenior, had few appearances for Chelsea and is among the players considered for sale this summer.
There have been claims that Chelsea could offload Guiu on a permanent basis. Sunderland is among the clubs shown interest in securing him, with others including Ipswich and Fiorentina noted in discussions. The implication is that Chelsea could move Guiu on, given the club’s limited European prospects next season, freeing up squad space for regular playing time for fringe players.
In parallel, Andrey Santos appears set for a high-value transfer away from Chelsea to Manchester United in the near term, as he has struggled to break into Chelsea’s first team with Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez ahead of him. Alonso is expected to prioritize opportunities for established midfielders, suggesting Santos may seek a move to secure more regular playing time.
Overall, Chelsea are anticipated to continue evaluating their squad for further transfer activity, aiming to strengthen competition for positions, particularly in midfield, while managing player movement to align with Alonso’s plans for the season.
