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Greenaway's rumours posts with other poster's replies to Greenaway's rumours posts
29 Jun 2026 22:45:37
I think £8 million is a very good offer for 34 year old Granit Xhaka, if he wants the move it will happen, we might be squeezed for a bit more but a very sensible starting point from the club. The transfer market is going crazy this summer and some of our stock piling of players might just turn into huge revenue going forward.
Talks of Delap going for £45 million and Gusto for £75 million, I'm not really into all this banter about what a player is worth or is not worth but I'm bored watching this Germany game tonight so thought I would get involved. Fair play to the owners for showing the foresight over the last few seasons to snap up potential.
1.) 30 Jun 2026 05:49:56
Greenaway, if Sunderland don't want to sell they don't have to but I agree that I personally wouldn't want the club to pay much more than our reported offer.
My guess would be, if a deal is to happen, it will be because the "player" wants to leave.
2.) 30 Jun 2026 08:12:54
We move onto our next target then, Tom. Why would Sunderland sell their most influential player? It was always going to be a tough ask, even with a better offer.
3.) 30 Jun 2026 08:18:16
Bill, exactly, mate. The only way I can see it changing is if the player says he wants to move.
The player may well be unhappy if we move onto another target and he wants to leave.
4.) 30 Jun 2026 08:38:12
So be it, Tom. That is for Sunderland to worry about. Our worry is, where are our leaders coming from?
Please don't say 'within.' We completely imploded in the second half of last season. Even if the coach was not good enough, we have had this situation before, but JT, Lamps, etc. stood up and pulled us through.
5.) 30 Jun 2026 11:28:07
My feeling is, if Xhaka really wants this move, he will ask Sunderland to find a compromise, and if not, he will then have to hand in a transfer request.
Either way, I think he will be joining us, I hope so.
6.) 30 Jun 2026 13:13:55
But they don't have to transfer him, swcfc.
7.) 30 Jun 2026 14:03:15
That's true, of course, Bill, but they will then be keeping a disgruntled, demotivated player who's burnt his bridges with the club and fans.
It really depends on how much he wants the move and is prepared to push.
8.) 30 Jun 2026 16:03:50
Bill, why would I say "from within" when I have been very critical of what appears to be a lack of leaders in our squad for several seasons.
We are not the only club in the Premiership who would very rarely keep an unhappy player.
9.) 30 Jun 2026 16:35:19
My point is, where are we going to get the leaders we need? We are already messing Sunderland around with what could be one.
10.) 30 Jun 2026 17:21:28
Why on earth do you think we are messing Sunderland around? We have put in an offer that's been turned down. If they say to us, "no matter what you offer, we will not sell," then I guess we walk away.
Bill, I have no idea who is on the list of our targets; we may well have loads of leaders on that list.
I'm all for digging the club out when it's reasonable, but I can't see any reason to be critical at the moment.
11.) 30 Jun 2026 17:45:53
Trust the vision, Bill. The Sds have delivered so far. We're stacked top to bottom with future leaders and stars. We just have to wait 5 years to see if any of the good ones can be bothered staying.
12.) 30 Jun 2026 21:53:56
Bill, I regard you as a great poster on here, one of our banter family. You do see things so pessimistically at times, but that said, you are a genuine Chelsea mate.
13.) 01 Jul 2026 08:00:37
Cheers for that, Greenaway.
I just thought it would have been good to have a leader in the pack for, let's face it, a smallish fee, albeit no sell on value.
Maybe we will get the leaders we need, but he is the one Alonso wants.
I just try and highlight what I see is wrong with us, including FOS and SB projects, but it's very important this season to get the playing staff right.
14.) 02 Jul 2026 09:32:14
Perhaps Sunderland will think they have another cover in midfield, given their Kante-like Noah Sadiki, who was so effective for much of the game for DRC v England yesterday. In fact, another Sunderland DRC player, defender Masuaku, looked good as well. So, they put together a pretty good side at fairly low cost to make European football ahead of us last season.
15.) 02 Jul 2026 11:41:45
I do agree that, if the price is right, Granit Xhaka may be a good addition in terms of adding experience and familiarity with Alonso at Leverkusen. Good to have in the squad, but I would not want this to lead to Santos leaving.
But perhaps he would be a replacement in the squad, or alternating in the side, but playing far more matches cos of the ever injured Lavia.
15 Jun 2026 10:21:30
BB apparently wanted by Bayern Munich, be nice to move him on, showed some early promise but just not consistent enough for me but was that due to all the chopping and changing at the back? Disasi also attracting a lot of interest.
1.) 15 Jun 2026 12:49:40
Where are you hearing this rumour? Or is it just wishful thinking?
2.) 16 Jun 2026 23:45:30
In the last few days I have read stories saying Badiashile is going to Real Madrid, Milan, or staying.
I love the rumours.
3.) 17 Jun 2026 02:01:51
Milan have been credited with interest in BB before, but it might just be that we have a habit of selling players to them.
4.) 17 Jun 2026 08:41:48
Milan, it will be Tom. They will want a 20 year loan, and we will have to pay 200% of his wages, plus a packet of Rolo's every month.
5.) 17 Jun 2026 08:47:09
Not sure about the Rolo's.
I thought it was just rubbish, but I can see how a Real transfer might work.
6.) 18 Jun 2026 02:11:28
Tbf, Bill, Milan have actually paid us fairly decent fees for the players we've signed, unlike other Italian clubs.
7.) 18 Jun 2026 08:18:19
Fiser,
I just can't stand Italian clubs coming over with their begging bowls when they charge us top dollar if we want a player.
8.) 19 Jun 2026 12:08:20
Celery, I saw the Bayern rumours on the shed chat page, and have also since seen the Milan rumours from a couple of sources. I guess we will have to wait and see if Alonso wants to give him a chance as well.
14 Jun 2026 21:53:18
£51.8 million for Cucu is a very smart bit of business by Alonso and the club. He has served us well but isn't a wing back and really would of looked lost in an Alonso system. Who comes in will be interesting and lovely to see Alonso already shaping his squad.
1.) 14 Jun 2026 22:55:50
Greenaway, I can't remember what he cost all those years ago? I seem to remember £50m ish, but I'm not certain.
I wouldn't have a clue if it was an Alonso or SD decision, but he hinted that he wanted to go, so goodbye as far as I am concerned.
I seem to remember a previous poster saying a sale would likely show as a book profit of approx £30m.
I guess we will sell some at a profit and some at a loss, just like most clubs.
2.) 15 Jun 2026 09:28:58
I think Cucurella is one of the best left backs in the world and also perfectly capable of play at left wing back. We paid £60million for him.
Whether this is a very smart piece of business by the club remains to be seen - depends, as always, on who we can get in to replace him and/or back up Hato (who may play LCB if Alonso plays three at the back?) - but I think we are weaker without MC and the goals he gave us (seven times more than Delap?). Problem is that he wanted to go, and we, as a club, do not tend to prevent players leaving if they wish to go, and clearly the best players would like Champions League football, which we spectacularly failed to get.
Yes, we won the (abysmally low standard) Conference League, and then the CWC, but it was a pretty disastrous season, partly a result of fatigue/injuries that ensued. Then, of course, Maresca, having boosted his profile, wanted away to Juventus or City.
Anyway, it may well not be wise to comment much more on whether we will be weaker next season overall until this transfer window is over. Like others, I hope that Alonso will both persuade most of our better players to stay, attract some others in, and be able to offload those not good enough or surplus to requirements.
3.) 15 Jun 2026 09:41:37
JBS, I agree Cucarella had one horrible season, but has generally been very good for us.
I don't like it when players start talking about moving during a season, but my guess is it's driven by agents, and, again, as you say, we don't keep a player if they are not happy.
I assume it will now show as a financial profit on our books, but he also gave a playing return on our investment, and I cannot fault his effort for the club. As you say, too early to judge about replacements, but I am a Hall fan.
4.) 15 Jun 2026 17:09:02
Tom,
I think Hall is earmarked for Man U.
I would not be too fussed if we did not get him, if im honest, I believe he has had a number of injuries.
5.) 16 Jun 2026 11:28:09
Bill, or maybe not.
07 Jun 2026 11:46:28
So it appears we are in for Alejandro Grimaldo to replace Marc Cucurella. Anyone know much about him?
1.) 07 Jun 2026 12:43:57
Nothing from me, I'm afraid, Greenaway, but apparently Alonso likes him.
2.) 07 Jun 2026 18:45:03
Obviously perfect for the Alonso system, technically very good, capable of inverting in the attacking third and being a creative force. His heat maps, under Alonso, show how often he did this. He has a year left on his contract, so won't break the bank. It’s a move that makes a ton of sense to me. I actually think Barco could learn a lot from him, and eventually take over the LWB role permanently. People correctly point out that Barco is more CM than LB now, but I’d argue the LWB role, under Alonso, is more CM than LB, and would see Barco in more positions to use his creative passing, certainly more than he would in the double pivot.
I recommend everyone check out tactical reviews of Alonso's invincible season at Leverkusen. It becomes obvious how important Grimaldo was. My only concern would be him adjusting to the pace of the EPL at this stage of his career, but I think he should be good enough.
3.) 07 Jun 2026 20:12:35
Thanks, J. So you would endorse the signing? Sounds like the owners and sporting directors are buying into Alonso running the show if this one happens.
4.) 07 Jun 2026 22:11:33
100%, it makes a lot of sense in the short term. Also, part of the mentality monster hiring that Alonso wants to do.
5.) 08 Jun 2026 11:49:26
Thanks, J.
6.) 08 Jun 2026 14:31:43
Interesting posts, and thanks for them. I would endorse J's point about Grimaldo. Losing MC would still be a big blow, but given where we ended up after last season's dreadful mid-table mediocrity defining tenth place, it would not be surprising. I can only hope we don't lose EF or JP too, though EF seems a likely loss. It will be a tough job for Alonso to come in at this time, but we all hope he will be our equivalent of Klopp.
Our rivals for the top 4/5 will be strengthening yet further. LFC may improve considerably under Iraola. Our one big advantage should obviously be not having to play much midweek football, and being able to benefit as United (and Bournemouth, Brighton, Sunderland and Brentford!?) did last season.
7.) 08 Jun 2026 16:31:01
JBS
We have a really good squad of players. They were just badly coached.
8.) 08 Jun 2026 22:04:13
Grimaldo will be 31 in Sept, and has played his whole career in Benfica and Germany. He is okay. I would be happier with Hato at LB tbh - if we were to lose Cucurella.
9.) 08 Jun 2026 22:23:33
I think Bill is correct in saying we have a good squad of players. Maresca coached them well, with top 4 last season, 2 pots, and in a comfortable Champions League position this season; when he left, that was sadly undone by Liam and then Ginger.
Celery, I'm with you on Hato, he looks a sublime talent, but I think he really suits that left-sided centre back role in a back 3?
10.) 09 Jun 2026 08:07:25
We are not sure if Alonso is going to play with three at the back, although that seems to have been his favoured historic shape.
If he does go down that route, I'm not sure how that will affect our current wide players?
Of course, he could just look at the squad and play 433.
Grimaldo looked a solid player when I last saw him play. I'm not sure about him as a person/leader, but the manager knows him well, and we have to trust his judgement.
11.) 10 Jun 2026 05:19:12
I wouldn't get too caught up on starting formations, four or three at the back. In possession, Alonso's teams typically end up with three defenders and a pivot sitting deep, with five in the attacking positions. If we were to sign Grimaldo, it would be to fill one of the attacking five positions, from the left hand side.
Garnacho will likely move on, possibly Gittens and Neto too.
Although Neto can play inside, so maybe there's a role for him. Quenda can and has played WB. Estevao and Palmer are both very good options for Alonso's system.
Character-wise, he's been part of a Leverkusen side previously ridiculed as 'Neverkusen'. To go unbeaten in a season, all but one game across all comps, I'd suggest that whole team had great mentality and character - mentality monsters.
12.) 10 Jun 2026 05:23:11
Celery, I suspect we'll see Hato and Acheampong sharing mins, making up what ends up being a back three, with Colwill and a new CB signing.
13.) 10 Jun 2026 13:05:47
J. Yep, when/if Alonso plays a back 3, then I can see Hato (left) and Josh (right) getting some minutes. They are both tremendous players imho - we really do have some great young players.
19 Apr 2026 22:05:39
A few rumours about Simeone tonight. Any truth in it ED01?
{Ed001's Note - not as far as I am aware. Last I heard he will not consider a move away right now as he thinks there is a chance for more titles there.}
1.) 20 Apr 2026 09:40:06
Thanks ED01, he would be a good option although Jose would be perfect. I think it might end up being Lampard though.
{Ed001's Note - I hear Gary O'Neil is available....}
2.) 20 Apr 2026 11:17:10
It wouldn't surprise me ED01 with this lot in charge
3.) 20 Apr 2026 13:25:19
That's it ED001, kick people while they are down.
{Ed001's Note - sorry Bill, that was a very low blow!}
Greenaway's banter posts with other poster's replies to Greenaway's banter posts
09 Jul 2026 09:28:31
Can't say i'm overly impressed with Xhaka in this game, he looks rather slow and ponderous both on and off the ball, not worth more than a token transfer fee and personally I think we should steer well clear if Sunderland want anymore than the £8 million offered.
1.) 09 Jul 2026 18:17:07
Must have been watching a different game - he was arguably Switzerland's best player.
2.) 10 Jul 2026 11:54:41
I thought he played pretty well too.
3.) 10 Jul 2026 20:46:11
His official rating against Colombia was 5.8.
4.) 10 Jul 2026 22:47:19
I thought he was bang average.
09 Jul 2026 09:13:38
He might be on his way but Enzo Fernandez take a bow my son, what a come back and well pleased for him. Great result and keeps my predictions on course. get in.
1.) 10 Jul 2026 09:38:45
Yes, a great goal and a great player for Chelsea. If he goes, it will be a bad blow for us.
07 Jul 2026 16:55:47
Typical Pochettino, flatters to deceive and USA go out.
No doubt FIFA will be relieved as it takes away the noise.
As for King Carlo, has he lost the plot, leaving Joao Pedro at home was borderline madness and some of his team selections were questionable.
That leaves Tommy T flying the flag of ex Chelsea managers at the WC.
Only 10 games left now and I'm thinking Spain v France and Argentina v England in the SF's.
04 Jul 2026 21:01:48
So many rumours flying about, so many lazy journo's click baiting, so many punters biting on headlines but one man will have a plan and that is Xabi Alonso who we must trust and back to take us to that top table, he will know the mood of the players linked to want away or stay, he will know what players he wants to stay, he will know what players he wants to sign. The owners completed their end of season review and put a plan in place.
1.
Give the head coach the title manager and let him manage.
2. Adjust and tweak the vision to allow the manager to build the squad he wants to challenge at the top table.
3. Lift restrictions on signing older players.
4. Ensure the sporting directors/scouts support the new manager.
Now Alonso is in the building he will (hopefully) put the jigsaw together, very exciting times ahead and well done blue. co for engaging change where it was needed.
1.) 06 Jul 2026 11:18:33
Can only hope the owners and SDs do as you say, Greenaway. Only time will tell whether this umpteenth attempt at a rebuild will be more successful. The appointment of Alonso is a hopeful sign, but getting the signings he wants/needs, and retaining the players he wants/needs (and he has already lost Cucurella), is key, of course.
02 Jul 2026 15:44:36
With Marco Palestra and Geovany Quenda both coming in as wing backs where does that leave Reece James? Does he move into midfield next to Moises? Probably not with Granit Xhaka possibly filling that role? Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill will both start as CB's so maybe Alonso sees James on the right of a back 3? Hato at LWB with Pep Chavarria, if he joins, competing for that spot? Or does Hato play on the left of a back 3? Josh will certainly be in the mix for that RCB role as well as Alonso is rumoured to be a big fan of his.
The options are looking encouraging for Xabi to work his magic.
1.) 02 Jul 2026 16:24:45
Very good for Alomso to have options and back up possibilities. Seems to me that Reece is sadly not going to be consistently fit, so it's that much more important to have alternative options, if only especially if Gusto goes to City or Atalanta.
As it is, Palestra is perhaps more of a classical RB, though can play RWB, and Quenda is an out and out winger but who can also play RWB. So they offer slightly different possibilities. All good that they can.
2.) 02 Jul 2026 17:57:11
It will be interesting to see who starts against Fulham, but lots can happen before then. Quenda might be loaned out. There are still some weaknesses in the squad. I hope Penders impresses in pre-season; it would be disappointing if Calamity Jane is still our No 1.
Although it's hard to imagine that he would suit Alonso's style of play, as Alonso likes his keeper to be pivotal in controlling a high press by opponents. We shall see.
3.) 03 Jul 2026 06:40:10
Alonso wants tactical flexibility. He wants players comfortable in multiple positions. I think, keeping fingers crossed, that we push the Lacroix deal through, and that we're building a very positive defensive unit for him.
4.) 03 Jul 2026 14:56:49
I will also hope we get the Lacroix deal done. And it would be good indeed if we could do our business as early as possible, tricky while the World Cup is still on and players of interest are still involved, of course, so that Alonso has as much time as possible to know and work with players that will be in our squad for next season.
30 Jun 2026 21:53:56
Bill, I regard you as a great poster on here, one of our banter family. You do see things so pessimistically at times, but that said, you are a genuine Chelsea mate.
30 Jun 2026 08:32:57
Bill, maybe the club and Alonso have an agreed financial budget for players coming in, and let's say, hypothetically, that budget is £200 million and they have already earmarked £45 million for a new RWB, £45 million for a new CB, and still plan to buy a LWB, GK and striker for x amount, which might only leave, say, £8 million for a CM.
I'm sure Alonso is pulling the strings, but will of course have some restrictions. I hope this helps explain things, mate.
28 Jun 2026 09:08:25
If Xhaka happens, it will be a very smart move by Alonso and the club. It tweaks the model nicely, and allows the very promising young players already signed up to both learn from an experienced player and have a clear pathway of their own.
I'm thinking of Andre Santos in particular. I far prefer this route as opposed to spending large on Adam Wharton and binning off Santos on some far away loan, only to lose him going forward.
22 Jun 2026 08:50:43
Let's just give Santos a proper run in the side, and develop him alongside Caicedo. Surely our priorities are a world-class centre-back and keeper.
19 Jun 2026 12:08:20
Celery, I saw the Bayern rumours on the shed chat page, and have also since seen the Milan rumours from a couple of sources. I guess we will have to wait and see if Alonso wants to give him a chance as well.
06 Jul 2026 18:16:30
Tom, it was a brilliant game and a great watch, Bill, how did you fall asleep during the game? it was very exciting.
Is it finally coming home? ENG--ER--LAND, get in.
05 Jul 2026 13:28:32
Totally agree with Jimbo here, let's wait and see, same as Xhaka and all the other rumours.
03 Jul 2026 23:04:34
Tom, I would not bid more than £3 million for him. I do even wonder if this is all Twitter talk as well, designed to pick up the naive....
02 Jul 2026 16:51:41
If a player has had his head turned by another club, and wants to leave, then that is fine by me. Thank you, and goodbye. Curcurella was very honest when asked about his move home to Spain, and it was very much for family reasons, and I wish him well. If, and it remains a big if, Enzo wants to leave, then the price needs to reflect his ability, and I read somewhere that the club will not entertain offers less than £120 million, and that was before Elliot Anderson signed for Man City at £117 million, and Tonali to Spurs for £100 million! The fees are crazy.
If Alonso lines us up as a 3-4-2-1, then Moises and Xhaka will occupy those 2 central spots, and Palmer and Estevao will fill the two 10's, and Jaoa Pedro may well work there as well, and that is before Alonso even looks at a replacement. That all said, I have a feeling Enzo might just stay.
28 Jun 2026 17:33:29
We can all see that Lavia has the ability to be world class, but, as Jimbo says, can he be relied upon?