Xavi Simons: Chelsea Step Up Interest but Squad Trim May Be Needed First
Chelsea have intensified their interest in Dutch playmaker Xavi Simons, with insiders revealing the player is open to a move to Stamford Bridge this summer. However, any potential deal may hinge on the club offloading one or two current attackers first.
The Blues have already been busy in the transfer market, snapping up Liam Delap, João Pedro, and Jamie Gittens. Willian Estêvão is also expected to join soon. But despite the influx of talent, Chelsea aren’t done shopping just yet.
Sources have confirmed the club has run background checks on RB Leipzig’s Simons.
“Chelsea have made a check on Xavi Simons with the player believed to be open to a transfer to Stamford Bridge, but a move for another attacker may be dependent on a departure.”
That “departure” could come in several forms. Noni Madueke has just completed his move to Arsenal. And with Chelsea targeting a fluid, versatile front line, more exits seem likely.
Christopher Nkunku is tipped to leave this window. If that happens, Chelsea would push for a player of Simons’ profile — able to play in central attacking roles or drift from the left.
“Christopher Nkunku is expected to leave the club and his departure would almost certainly lead to Chelsea moving to replace him with a profile of a player such as Simons or Rogers…”
Meanwhile, João Félix could be on his way back to Benfica, who are monitoring the situation closely. Other clubs have also shown interest in the Portuguese attacker.
“João Félix can leave Chelsea this summer, with Benfica interested in re-signing him and other clubs making checks on the Portuguese.”
Nicolas Jackson isn’t considered irreplaceable either. A sizeable offer could tempt Chelsea to part ways, despite his contributions last season. Youngster Tyrique George is another who might head out, but only on loan.
In a more concerning twist, Mykhailo Mudryk faces a potential suspension, having been charged by the FA over doping violations.
“Mykhailo Mudryk has been charged by the Football Association for doping offences and is facing the threat of a long ban.”
Chelsea’s aim? A highly competitive attacking unit, nine forwards battling for game time. And Simons is a name that’s high on their list.
Thanks to Champions League qualification and recent Club World Cup success, Chelsea are regaining their pull among Europe’s rising stars. Simons is said to be genuinely interested in the project unfolding at Stamford Bridge.
Though Arsenal are also keeping tabs, Chelsea are reportedly the more attractive proposition for the 21-year-old midfielder right now.
“Arsenal are believed to have also registered an interest, but it is Chelsea who are currently rated the most attractive of the English options.”
Simons, who is working with top agent Ali Barat, is poised for a summer move. Barat already has strong links at Stamford Bridge and was instrumental in bringing Caicedo, Jackson, and Madueke to west London.
“Simons is working with high-profile agent Ali Barat over a summer move. Barat has good links to both Chelsea and Arsenal…”
Whether Chelsea make their move now or wait until a forward departs, one thing’s clear — the club are serious about signing Simons.
And he, it seems, is just as serious about joining.
