A thrilling transfer tussle may be on the horizon between Premier League giants Arsenal and Chelsea, as noted football journalist Fabrizio Romano discloses that both clubs are ‘aware’ of Xavi Simons’ intention to move this summer, with negotiations anticipated to gain momentum soon.
The talented playmaker has expressed his desire to depart from his current club since May, with speculations suggesting a potential fee falling below £60 million. This enticing prospect has undoubtedly captured the attention of two of England’s most lavish spenders.
Despite Arsenal bolstering several key positions this summer, a natural playmaker still eludes Mikel Arteta’s squad. Concerns emerged from supporters regarding Martin Ødegaard’s fluctuating form last season. So far, the Gunners have made notable acquisitions, including Martin Zubimendi, Christian Nørgaard, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Noni Madueke. Sporting Director Andrea Berta has earned accolades for the club’s proactive efforts in the transfer market.
Nevertheless, the quest for midfield creativity continues for Arteta, with Arsenal maintaining an interest in Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze. Reports from *Football.London* as recent as Monday outline the Gunners’ sustained interest in Eze, who has a release clause estimated at around £67 million.
Conversely, Chelsea have been busy revamping their attacking lineup this window. Focusing primarily on youth and flexibility, Enzo Maresca’s squad has seen the arrivals of talents such as Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, and Jamie Gittens. Nonetheless, with Noni Madueke’s move to Arsenal and anticipated departures of Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku, the Blues are still on the hunt for an additional attacking option.
Their top priority remains Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, although negotiations have proven tricky. Villa are reportedly demanding a hefty sum close to £80 million for their star player. This could offer Arsenal a window of opportunity in their pursuit of RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons.
According to Romano, Simons – who has two years remaining on his Leipzig contract – has expressed an unyielding desire to leave this summer. “The Xavi Simons deal is expected to develop soon as the player’s decision since May is clear; he wants to leave,” stated Romano on social media platform x.
With the potential transfer fee now below €70 million, both Arsenal and Chelsea remain keenly interested, alongside FC Bayern. The Dutch international secured a permanent move to Leipzig in January after an extended loan stint from Paris Saint-Germain. Despite an impressive record of 11 goals and eight assists in 33 appearances last season, and his inclusion in the Bundesliga Team of the Season the previous year, Leipzig’s failure to secure European football has propelled Simons towards an exit.
While formal bids from Arsenal and Chelsea are yet to materialise, both clubs are meticulously monitoring this evolving situation, keen not to miss an opportunity to secure the services of one of European football’s most promising talents.
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