Amidst the bustling transfer market, Chelsea are at the forefront of the quest to secure the services of RB Leipzig’s gem, Xavi Simons, with the versatile Dutch international eyeing a move away after Leipzig’s failure to qualify for the Champions League. Noted journalist Fabrizio Romano has disclosed that both Chelsea and Arsenal are keenly monitoring his situation.
Both London clubs have been proactive this summer in bolstering their attacking line-ups. Noni Madueke has made a switch from Chelsea to Arsenal, who are nearing the completion of a deal for Sporting’s Viktor Gyökeres. Meanwhile, Chelsea have successfully brought in Liam Delap, João Pedro, and Jamie Gittens.
A final addition in attack appears to be on the agenda for both clubs, with links to Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze circulating. Chelsea are also in discussions with Aston Villa regarding Morgan Rogers.
Romano broke the news on Friday, revealing via Twitter that the two clubs from the capital are carefully tracking Simons’ scenario. He noted that Simons is looking for an exit route from Leipzig, with top Premier League sides duly informed of the developments. As Romano clarifies, there have been “no bids or talks yet” and thus far “nothing concrete with Barça.”
Adding a twist to the narrative, Spanish outlet Sport reports that Manchester United have held discussions with Simons’ representatives, notwithstanding their imminent capture of Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, which could complicate their pursuit.
According to Bild, Leipzig rebuffed a €50 million (£43 million) offer from Bayern Munich for the 22 year old. Transfermarkt currently values Simons at around €70 million (£61 million), highlighting the financial muscle required to prise him away.
Bild further elucidates Chelsea’s advantageous position, owing largely to the involvement of consultant Ali Barat of Epic Sports. Known for his influential role in Premier League transfers, Barat’s strategic ties may provide Chelsea with the leverage needed to secure Simons’ signature.
Barat, recognised as one of Europe’s foremost player advisors, was pivotal in orchestrating Moisés Caicedo’s £116 million move from Brighton to Chelsea. His behind-the-scenes expertise previously facilitated Karim Adeyemi’s passage to Chelsea.
Epic Sports, helming negotiations for a number of Chelsea’s past and present stars such as Nicolas Jackson, Ian Maatsen, Cesare Casadei, and Conor Gallagher, will fortify Chelsea’s pursuit of Simons. However, as discussions intensify, the midfielder’s destination remains open.
As the intertwining sagas unfold, Chelsea, Arsenal, and to a lesser extent, Manchester United, are poised in the compelling race for Xavi Simons, with the coming weeks set to provide a resolution.
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