Granit Xhaka has finally spoken about Chelsea’s unsuccessful effort to bring him to Stamford Bridge during the summer transfer window. The experienced midfielder was one of the Blues’ main targets as they looked to add senior leadership to their squad, but the former Arsenal player chose to continue at the Stadium of Light.

The attraction of Stamford Bridge was not enough

In a summer in which Chelsea pushed strongly for experience to complement their young squad, Xhaka surprisingly became a priority target for the West London side. The 33-year-old Switzerland international, who has enjoyed an impressive revival in his career since leaving Arsenal, was viewed by Chelsea’s hierarchy as an ideal option for the centre of midfield. Even so, despite the status that comes with a switch to Chelsea, Xhaka has now said that his commitment to Sunderland’s ongoing project mattered more than the chance to return to the capital.

Chelsea’s interest went far beyond a routine enquiry. The Blues made a formal bid worth £8m for the veteran midfielder, but Sunderland’s board rejected the offer quickly and decisively. After those talks broke down, Chelsea moved on and completed deals for 36-year-old Jordan Henderson and 35-year-old Danny Welbeck to address their need for experienced leadership.

Committed to Sunderland’s project

Xhaka’s influence at Sunderland has been hugely significant since he arrived. After taking over as captain, he guided the team to Europa League qualification in his first season, making 34 Premier League appearances and establishing himself as the tactical focal point of the side. His connection with both the supporters and the management has grown strongly, creating a relationship he believed was too important to walk away from for a return to one of the traditional "Big Six" clubs.

Speaking about the summer transfer drama during an appearance on the Sports Agents Podcast, Xhaka gave a clear explanation of his thinking and the reasons he felt he had to stay with the Black Cats. The midfielder stressed that when he joined the club in 2025, it was with a defined long-term vision rather than a short-term stay. "When I signed the contract here, there was a plan behind the scenes, and the plan was to stick to this project, to believe in this project, and to work for this project," Xhaka explained.

Unfinished business on Wearside

The main reason behind Xhaka’s decision is his belief that he still has more to achieve with Sunderland. With two years still left on his current contract, the midfielder is concentrating fully on the club’s forthcoming European campaign as well as its domestic development. He also disclosed that an important discussion with the club’s owner helped strengthen his position during a period of heavy speculation.

"When I spoke with the owner of Sunderland, I told him from the beginning, I don't have the feeling that this project is done yet, and this is my motivation," Xhaka said firmly.

European nights and ambitions ahead

Sunderland are now getting ready for a landmark Europa League campaign, which starts with a home match against AZ Alkmaar. That opportunity to play on the continental stage was a major reason behind Xhaka’s desire to stay, as he aims to lead the Black Cats against teams such as Lech Poznan, Dinamo Zagreb and Anderlecht in the league phase. "I want to enjoy the European football with this football club with the fans, and hopefully we can get more after this season," he concluded.

Before starting their European campaign, however, Sunderland will first take on Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday.