Chelsea eye Xhaka while Swiss midfielder vows World Cup focus

Chelsea have been linked with a move for 33‑year‑old Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka, with media reports suggesting the Sunderland captain could join the London club, although no fee has been disclosed. The speculation follows his 150th appearance for Switzerland in a 2‑0 victory over Algeria. Chelsea’s interest is driven by Xhaka’s versatility and experience in top European leagues, having amassed nearly 300 appearances for Arsenal and also featuring for Borussia Mönchengladbach and Bayer Leverkusen. A further lure is the prospect of reuniting him with former Leverkusen teammate Xabi Alonso, now at Chelsea. Xhaka dismissed the transfer chatter, stating, “It is not my job to talk about a possible move to Chelsea. I want to fully concentrate on the World Cup.” He emphasized that his management handles any such discussions.

Switzerland shatters 88‑year knockout drought as Algeria exits

After the 2‑0 win over Algeria, Xhaka marked his 150th cap and reflected, “Wearing the red shirt makes you proud. It is even better that we are through. At the start we were almost too motivated, and we needed that goal.” He added that the team’s play was not perfect despite leading 1‑0. Switzerland now awaits the winner of the Ghana‑Colombia clash in the round of 16, a match scheduled for Saturday. The Swiss side will aim to build on the momentum from the Algeria victory.

Manzambi's solo brilliance gives Switzerland early edge vs Algeria

Xhaka’s career includes a long spell at Arsenal, where he logged almost 300 games, as well as periods at Borussia Mönchengladbach and Bayer Leverkusen. His time at Leverkusen saw him work alongside Xabi Alonso, a connection that could be revived should a Chelsea deal materialise. For Xhaka, the focus remains on contributing to Switzerland’s World Cup campaign rather than pursuing a club switch. For Chelsea, the rumours underline a need to explore alternative midfield options if the Swiss captain stays committed to the tournament.