Shearer calls Chelsea’s £8m Xhaka bid embarrassing, Sunderland rejects
Former Premier League top scorer Alan Shearer has criticized Chelsea’s £8million offer for Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka, calling it embarrassing and ridiculous. Shearer noted that Sunderland bought Xhaka for £17million last season and he was one of the best players in the league, making Chelsea’s bid less than half his purchase price. Sunderland rejected the offer outright, labeling it disrespectful and insisting the 33‑year‑old is not for sale. The interest comes from incoming Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, who previously worked with Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen, where they helped the club win an unbeaten Bundesliga title in 2023‑24. Alonso believes Xhaka can provide the experience and leadership Chelsea needs after finishing 10th last season. According to The Athletic, Chelsea are expected to return with an improved bid. For Nigerian football fans following the Premier League, this saga highlights how clubs value experienced midfielders and the tension between selling clubs aiming to protect their assets and buyers seeking bargains. Watch for Chelsea’s next move and Sunderland’s response as the transfer window progresses.