Chelsea's pursuit of Xhaka highlights shift in squad-building strategy

In recent years, the West London side have built their recruitment strategy around signing some of the game's brightest young talents on long-term contracts, investing heavily in players they believe can form the backbone of future success.

However, that approach has also attracted criticism, with Chelsea at times lacking experience and leadership in key moments.

There is now a greater openness to adding proven players who can make an immediate impact - and Xhaka fits that profile.

He joined Sunderland last year in a £17million move from Bayer Leverkusen, and the 33-year-old Switzerland international remains under contract until 2028.

He played a key role in helping Sunderland qualify for European competition last season. The club are reluctant to part with one of their most influential players.

As such, it is believed Chelsea could be forced to pay as much as £35 million to secure Xhaka's signature when they formalise their interest. Sources are indicating Chelsea may be unwilling to reach that figure, so they face a dilemma.

The good news from a Chelsea perspective is that Xhaka is interested in the move, and it is anticipated that he would be offered a contract until 2029.

But while the club values his experience and leadership qualities, they believe a fee in that £35m region for a player at this stage of his career would represent poor value.

Chelsea are continuing to assess a number of options across the market as they reshape the squad this summer.

Lacroix among other targets

While midfield remains an important area, the club are also exploring defensive reinforcements, with a new centre-back another priority.

Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix is among the players Chelsea have monitored for some time, and they are pushing ahead with their interest.

He is highly regarded internally, with new boss Xabi Alonso understood to be a particularly strong admirer of both his aggressive playing style and resilient mentality.