Xabi Alonso Eyes Chelsea Reunion with Granit Xhaka

Chelsea are reportedly interested in bringing Granit Xhaka back to Stamford Bridge, with Xabi Alonso keen on a reunion with the midfielder at Bayer Leverkusen, according to The Guardian's Jacob Steinberg.

The Swiss international left Arsenal for Leverkusen in the summer of 2023 and has been a key figure under Alonso, helping the club win the Bundesliga title last season.

Context: Why Xhaka Fits Alonso's System

Xhaka's profile as a deep-lying playmaker who can dictate tempo and break up play fits Alonso's tactical demands. At Leverkusen, he operates as the metronome in midfield, combining with Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong to create attacking transitions.

His passing accuracy of 89% in the Bundesliga last season ranked among the highest for midfielders, while his 2.1 tackles per game show defensive discipline. Alonso values control and experience, and Xhaka provides both.

Impact Analysis: What This Means for Chelsea

Chelsea's midfield has lacked a consistent disruptive presence since N'Golo Kanté's injury struggles. Moisés Caicedo has yet to fully settle, while Enzo Fernández is more progressive. Xhaka’s return would add leadership and a calm head in possession.

  • Xhaka's experience in the Premier League reduces adaptation time.
  • He offers a left-footed balance to Chelsea's midfield pairings.
  • His set-piece delivery could improve Chelsea's goal threat from dead balls.

For FPL managers, Xhaka averages 3.2 points per game this season but could see an increase if he returns to a Chelsea side that creates more chances. His current price of £5.0m may rise if a transfer materialises.

What's Next for Chelsea's Midfield Planning

With Conor Gallagher's future uncertain and Lesley Ugochukwu out on loan, Chelsea could prioritise a midfielder in the January window. Xhaka's relationship with Alonso at Leverkusen complicates any deal, but Chelsea's interest signals a strategic pivot towards experience and reliability over youth.

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