Sunderland have identified Aston Villa midfielder Lamare Bogarde as a potential summer signing, with the Black Cats bracing for a possible departure of captain Granit Xhaka following surprise interest from Chelsea .
The Wearside club, who secured a seventh place Premier League finish and Europa League qualification in their first season back in the top flight, are understood to hold a “concrete interest” in the 22 year old Dutchman, according to Dutch publication Voetbal International . However, they face competition from Brighton, with both clubs reportedly willing to pay a “substantial fee” for the Villa midfielder .
Bogarde made 44 appearances across all competitions for Unai Emery’s side last season, featuring heavily in Villa’s successful Europa League campaign with 13 outings in the competition . The Netherlands youth international is primarily deployed at the base of midfield but has also operated at centre back and right back . Having joined Villa from Feyenoord’s academy in 2020, he spent loan spells at Bristol Rovers before breaking into the first team picture .
The pursuit of Bogarde comes amid mounting speculation that Xhaka could be on his way to Stamford Bridge, with new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso pushing to reunite with the midfielder he coached at Bayer Leverkusen . Reports suggest Xhaka is keen on the move, with some sources claiming personal terms have been verbally agreed .
Sunderland’s position, however, remains firm. Chronicle Live understands that no formal approach has been made by Chelsea, and the Black Cats have no intention of entertaining offers for their captain . Xhaka, who turns 34 in September, has two years remaining on his contract and is currently away at the World Cup with Switzerland .
The situation presents a dilemma for Régis Le Bris’s side. While they are determined to retain their influential captain, the prospect of a significant fee for a player of his age may force a financial calculation, particularly with European football adding to squad demands and financial regulations to consider . For now, Bogarde represents a contingency plan, with Sunderland seemingly preparing for all outcomes as the summer window unfolds.
