Granit Xhaka looks set to remain at Sunderland this summer, with the club firmly shutting the door on any move to Chelsea despite the London side's persistent interest.

Chelsea saw an £8 million bid for the Switzerland captain rejected by Sunderland last week. The Blues had been tipped to return with a higher offer, but sources at Sunderland have told BBC Sport that the 33-year-old is not available at any price. Following internal discussions, Xhaka has reaffirmed his commitment to the Black Cats, whose contract with him runs until 2028.

The Alonso connection

The draw of working again with Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso had made the proposition attractive to Xhaka. The pair worked together at Bayer Leverkusen, where Alonso guided the club to their historic first Bundesliga title in 2023 — with Xhaka playing a central role in that triumph.

Chelsea have not abandoned their pursuit entirely, with sources at the club insisting that the former Arsenal midfielder remains keen on a move to Stamford Bridge. Whether the Blues will table another bid, however, remains unclear.

A landmark season at Sunderland

Xhaka arrived at Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen and immediately made his mark, helping the club qualify for European football for the first time in 53 years. He featured in all 34 of his side's Premier League appearances as the Black Cats finished seventh and secured a place in the Conference League.

The Swiss captain spent seven years at Arsenal — making 297 appearances — before his move to Leverkusen. Now a cornerstone of Sunderland's project, he appears determined to see out his long-term deal on Wearside.

World Cup duty with Switzerland

Xhaka is currently representing Switzerland at the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. He has featured in every match of his country's campaign, which has carried them through to the last 16.