Granite will stay in Zaka Sunderland This summer, despite attempts by Chelsea to sign the Switzerland midfielder.
Journalist Sebastian Dennis reports Exclusive insight on the Sunderland midfielder's future today.
Sunderland stands strong
According to their information, 'Granit Xhaka will officially stay at Sunderland this summer.' He said that the Black Cats have made this clear. And they have made it clear from day one that the 33-year-old is 'completely non-transferable' this summer.
They say that while Xhaka was tempted to reunite with Xabi Alonso at Chelsea, the midfielder has finally confirmed his commitment to the Black Cats. The club has convinced him to stay at the Stadium of Light.
His ambition to secure a European place, long-term project and his 'very strong bond' with supporters at the club have made a difference to his decision. He will continue to be the 'key leader' this season after his impressive first season at the club last season.
chelsea effort
Chelsea have been attempting to sign the midfielder for the past two weeks, courtesy of Alonso. He made Xhaka a key part of his project at Bayer Leverkusen and was rewarded for it.
His leadership and control as a midfielder was a key part of the German team's success under Alonso before leaving for Real Madrid. A reunion at Chelsea, where the perception is that they need older players in the dressing room, would have made sense.
But Sunderland never showed any desire to sell, especially with reports from England stating that Chelsea had offered less than £8 million. Granit Xhaka is also clear about his future.
Sport Witness Cover Comments Last month he revealed that he was happy to leave in the summer without any transfer speculation. Before Chelsea made their move. Now it seems he and Sunderland are putting it to bed for good.
