Hijack drama as Xavi Simons jets into London for talks—RB Leipzig release £60m star but it’s not Chelsea on the agenda!
Xavi Simons, the promising Dutch midfielder, has reportedly traveled to London as negotiations intensify over a transfer that could see him leave RB Leipzig for as much as £60 million. The 22-year-old, who previously caught Chelsea’s interest, is now most closely linked to Tottenham Hotspur, who have recently overtaken their London rivals in the pursuit for his signature.
Reports from BILD indicate that Simons was absent from Leipzig training ahead of their upcoming Bundesliga clash with Heidenheim. The publication states that club officials confirmed Simons has been “released until further notice for future discussions,” signaling the seriousness of ongoing transfer talks.
Tottenham have yet to formalize an offer, but initial discussions with Leipzig have taken place. Simons, who is under contract for two more years, is thought to want to leave the German side. The north London club’s need for an attacking midfielder has grown following long-term injuries to James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski.
Tottenham’s search for creative reinforcements comes after missing out on Eberechi Eze, who joined their rivals Arsenal from Crystal Palace. Additionally, Spurs were unable to secure Morgan Gibbs-White, who decided to stay at Nottingham Forest rather than make a move.
Simons is seen as an ideal fit for Tottenham’s requirements. His youth, potential for further development, and dynamic style of play appeal to manager Thomas Frank. Simons built his early reputation at Barcelona’s academy before a move to Paris Saint-Germain at 16. A year-long spell at PSV Eindhoven followed, before PSG re-signed him via a buy-back clause. Leipzig acquired him in January after an 18-month loan.
Despite Tottenham’s strong interest, they are also considering other creative players, such as Savinho from Manchester City, Nico Paz of Italian club Como, and Maghnes Akliouche, who has recently earned a call-up to France’s senior team after impressing at Monaco.
The prospect of Champions League football with Tottenham is believed to be another significant draw for Simons. In contrast, Chelsea have already bolstered their attack this transfer window, bringing in Joao Pedro and Liam Delap for a combined £90 million.
