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Sun, Jul 26, 2026

Sunderland boss rules out Xhaka move to Chelsea

Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris has delivered a decisive statement on the long-running Granit Xhaka transfer saga, confirming the club captain will remain at the Stadium of Light this summer. In a straightforward address to the media, Le Bris firmly ruled out any possibility of Xhaka joining Chelsea, stating that the situation is now "closed." The 32-year-old's future had been the subject of intense speculation in recent weeks, with reports suggesting the Blues were keen to secure his services ahead of the new season.

Despite widespread rumors linking Xhaka to a lucrative move to Stamford Bridge, Le Bris has consistently maintained that the player's commitment to Sunderland remains unwavering. The French manager's statement on Wednesday is likely to bring an end to months of uncertainty surrounding the Swiss international's future. Xhaka has been an integral part of the Black Cats' squad since his arrival in 2022, and his leadership and experience have been invaluable to the team.

Le Bris's assertion that the Xhaka to Chelsea saga is now "closed" is a clear indication that Sunderland are not willing to let the club captain go without a fight. The manager's determination to keep Xhaka at the club is a testament to the player's importance to the team, and it is likely that the Black Cats will do everything in their power to ensure his continued presence at the Stadium of Light. With the new season just around the corner, Sunderland fans will be eager to see Xhaka in action once again, and Le Bris's statement has brought a welcome sense of clarity to the situation.

The Xhaka saga has been one of the most enduring transfer stories of the summer, with both Sunderland and Chelsea seemingly entrenched in their respective positions. While the Blues may be disappointed by the news, Le Bris's statement is a clear indication that the Black Cats are determined to hold onto one of their most valuable assets. As the transfer window draws to a close, Sunderland fans will be hoping that Xhaka will remain a key figure in the team's plans, and Le Bris's statement has brought a welcome sense of certainty to the situation.