Sunderland AFC involved in US preseason friendly and Chelsea transfer bid

Sunderland AFC and Leeds United FC met for a preseason friendly at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, on July 30. The match marked the first appearance of both English clubs at the venue and was promoted as a low‑cost, high‑atmosphere event for fans traveling via the PATH line.

Meanwhile, Chelsea FC is preparing a second, improved offer for Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka after the club rejected an initial £8 million proposal. New manager Xabi Alonso has identified the 33‑year‑old midfielder as essential to his plans, and Sunderland has indicated the player is not for sale, with his contract running until June 2028.