adminFormer Manchester United and England captain Wayne Rooney has made his feelings clear, launching a blunt critique of Chelsea’s latest bid for Sunderland skipper Granit Xhaka.
His sharply worded response—which quickly gained traction online—labeled the improved £12.5 million offer, plus add-ons, as “an insult wrapped in a polite envelope,” underscoring the rising friction in what is shaping up to be one of the summer’s most high-profile transfer disputes.
In a social media video recorded at Derby County’s training ground, where he currently manages, Rooney didn’t mince words.
“I’ve got massive respect for Granit Xhaka,” he said. “The man is a leader, a warrior in midfield, and he’s been absolutely brilliant for Sunderland since they came back up. But Chelsea coming in with £12.5m plus add-ons? Come on. That’s not a serious bid for someone of his quality.”
Drawing on his own experience with high-stakes transfers and dressing-room dynamics, Rooney backed Sunderland’s decision to hold their ground.
“You don’t lowball a player who’s captaining a Premier League side and helping them push for Europe. Xhaka isn’t some squad player—he’s the heart of that team. If Chelsea really want him, they need to pay what he’s worth. Simple as that.”
The former striker also commended Sunderland’s stance, suggesting that rejecting a low offer sends a strong signal about the club’s ambitions.
“I’ve been in those dressing rooms. When someone tries to undervalue your leader, it fires the whole group up. Sunderland fans should be proud—their club is standing firm. If Xhaka stays, it says everything about the project Régis Le Bris is building. And if he does leave, Chelsea better make it worth his while—because he’s earned it.”
Wider Context
Chelsea, under fresh leadership and keen to reinforce their midfield ahead of the new season, have now tabled at least two offers for the Swiss international. Sunderland, however, continue to maintain that Xhaka is not for sale below his true worth, with some sources suggesting they value their captain closer to £25–30 million.
The bid has ignited widespread debate, with many pundits and fans siding with Rooney’s view that the offer falls short for a player of Xhaka’s experience, leadership, and proven Premier League consistency.
Rooney’s remarks have resonated strongly with Sunderland supporters, who flooded social media with appreciation for the United legend’s honest backing.
“Rooney gets it,” one fan posted. “Proper football man speaking facts.”
As the transfer window intensifies, attention now turns to whether Chelsea will return with a significantly upgraded proposal—or if Xhaka will remain at Sunderland to spearhead another competitive campaign.
True to form, Wayne Rooney has once again reminded everyone why his voice continues to carry weight in the game.
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