Chelsea is in a position to sign 22 year old Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig. Discussions between Chelsea, Simons, and his camp are moving in the right direction. With terms being close to being agreed on. The larger challenge now rests with Leipzig and their valuation framework.
What’s Happening?
Chelsea is set to make a opening bid following successful talks over the last few days. RB Leipzig put Simons’s price at approximately €70 million (£60 61 million) with add ons. Sources indicate a deal could be achieved slightly cheaper based on bonus terms. Inclusion of a sell on clause will probably be on the deal.
Simons was signed by Leipzig in January on a permanent contract. He has already made it plain he would like a switch. Although no club to club formal discussions have yet commenced. His representatives have been in direct dialogue with Chelsea. They are advancing negotiations before an official approach.
Simons provides energy, vision, and flexibility. He is capable of playing as a No. 10 or playing off the left wing. Manager Enzo Maresca greatly appreciates this trait of his. Chelsea considers him to be an ideal creative cog to complement recent recruitments such as Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, and Liam Delap. Signing Simons would further enable Joao Pedro to play centrally, in case Nicolas Jackson leaves.
Chelsea are also pursuing Ajax defender Jorrel Hato in another move that has been going well, according to reports. Between the two, the club are seeking to further build depth on the pitch.
Funding the Transfer
The sale of Joao Felix to Al Nassr (initial £30m, could be rising) will release wages and transfer balance. Chelsea also intend to sell Christopher Nkunku, potentially Leipzig, to cash up before Simons’ signing. This money-managing is the way they will comply with Premier League PSR regulations.
Chelsea believe financially they can afford the investment due to good recent revenues and careful budgeting, according to sources.
What Might Hold Up the Deal?
While Chelsea are in the lead to sign Xavi Simons, there are a few obstacles left. RB Leipzig are said to be waiting for their full €70 million worth, which might impede negotiations. Although Simons wants to join Stamford Bridge, other massive clubs such as Bayern, Arsenal, and Barcelona still hang around with interest.
Another concern is Chelsea’s packed roster—prior to finalizing this transfer, the club will have to sell or send out players in order to abide by roster regulations. Those elements might slow things down, even when all parties appear eager to see the deal happen.
What’s Next?
Chelsea are set to launch formal negotiations with RB Leipzig soon, as they race to sign Xavi Simons to Stamford Bridge. Personal terms have already been agreed upon, so it is now a question of finalizing a fee and structure. While that is underway, Chelsea are also eyeing other attacking targets such as Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho.
The Blues need to improve their forward line and bring in additional depth ahead of the new season’s commencement. With time running out, decisions with speed will determine how this transfer window concludes for Chelsea.
Bottom Line
Chelsea are on the brink of making one of this summer’s biggest transfers. Simons is clearly keen to make a switch, Chelsea believe he is tactically an ideal fit, and Leipzig would gain from letting him go. If everything falls into place, a transfer could happen with surprising speed.
In a summer already characterised by strong moves, bringing in Simons now would add weight to Chelsea’s desire to push both domestically and in Europe.
Author’s Note
These talks are evidence of Chelsea’s expanding aspiration. Also the willingness to construct strategically. Simons suits stylistically and tactically. If sealed, this could be Chelsea’s most progressive midfield recruitment to date.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
