According to transfers reporter Cerchione, Xabi Alonso’s side have bid €30m (£25.8m) for Granit Xhaka. BBC Sport understands that Xhaka, who is currently at the World Cup with Switzerland, is open to a reunion with Alonso, having previously worked together at Bayer Leverkusen. The same outlet claims Sunderland are not interested in selling the 33-year-old this summer, as he played a significant role in them securing UEFA Europa League football for next season after finishing seventh in the Premier League in 2025-26.

TEAMtalk reports that sources close to Granit Xhaka's camp have indicated that interest from the Saudi Pro League is also developing.

According to sources close to Granit Xhaka's camp, at least two other Premier League clubs have made checks on his situation. The 33-year-old Switzerland international defensive midfielder joined Sunderland AFC in July 2025 and his current contract runs until June 2028. In the 2025/2026 Premier League season, Xhaka made 34 appearances, scoring one goal and providing six assists. He has earned 148 caps for his country. Transfermarkt estimates his current market value to be €8.00m.