Chelsea are yet to give up on signing Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Blues had an £8 million bid rejected and were reportedly told he would not move.
They need a midfielder of Xhaka’s ilk in their engine room to partner Moises Caicedo. His working relationship with Xabi Alonso is also a plus.
Chelsea desperately need a controller and experienced leader to bolster their midfield, and Xhaka fits the bill.
Chelsea must test Sunderland’s resolve
Chelsea understandably do not want to spend big money on a 33-year-old entering the twilight of his career.
Sunderland have insisted the ‘phenomenal‘ midfielder is staying, but Chelsea must test their resolve.
His experience at the highest level, composure under pressure and outstanding ability to progress the ball would instantly bolster the centre of the park.
Beyond his technical qualities, the Swiss international brings leadership, accountability and a winning mentality that cannot be measured by statistics alone.
Every successful team needs an emotional heartbeat, and Xhaka has shown he can be that figure.
He is far more than a short-term signing for Chelsea. Xhaka is the leader this squad has been crying out for.
Elsewhere, the Daily Mail claims that Alonso is ready to reintegrate Enzo Fernandez into the squad when he returns for pre-season training.
While he has been angling for a move to Real Madrid, they shut it down in a public statement, leaving the Argentine and his agent, Javier Pastore, looking sheepish.
They have every right to seek a Chelsea exit, given the club’s directionless behaviour, but their strategy has been embarrassing.
With no club pushing to secure his services, he might return with his tail between his legs.
