Personal terms Agreed: €90million winger rejects Chelsea huge offer, agreed personal terms to join Arsenal on a six-years deal
Arsenal Keep a close eye on Xavi Simons’ situation in the upcoming days and weeks because the desire from the player’s side since May has been very clear – he is planning to leave RB Leipzig and try a new chapter in his career.
The attacking midfielder has been honest with the Bundesliga giants since the start of the summer and now talks are expected to advance.
Sources guarantee that both Chelsea and Arsenal have already made contact with Simons’ camp to be informed about the conditions of any deal, with the Blues set to proceed in talks with Leipzig this week.
There is a sense in the industry that the initial €75million (£65million) demands could be reduced later in the window, and the Blues and Gunners wanted to be notified about his situation since the start of June.
Blues and Gunners Eyeing Swoop for Simons
Attacking midfielder not on course to make return to Barcelona
Reports about a Barcelona move are described as wide of the mark. Simons’ agents met with the reigning La Liga champions’ director Deco in the past days, but to discuss different topics. The meeting was not about the Netherlands international potentially returning to where he spent time as a youngster.
One day, Simons would love to go back to the club after his experience in the academy as a kid, but this summer was never a likely option and it is not expected to happen, barring any surprises.
Chelsea remain in the market for a No.10 despite several arrivals in attacking positions. Simons is appreciated internally and is for sure one of the names on their shortlist, with the player opening the doors to a move to Stamford Bridge after direct talks with his camp.
The exits of Christopher Nkunku – which is guaranteed – and possibly Nicolas Jackson open the doors to more movements with the 22-year-old among the names considered.
Arsenal would also like to add one more creative player. Talks already took place with Eberechi Eze’s agents but not with Crystal Palace so far, while the Gunners are informed on Simons’ situation but not at any advanced stage so far as outgoings will be crucial.
Chelsea are set for club-to-club negotiations with RB Leipzig this week, but Arsenal are also attentive. Sources say Simons is very open and keen on a move to the Premier League this summer. His situation is one to watch, for sure.
