Chelsea close in on Xavi Simons as personal terms talks accelerate amid squad overhaul
Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Simons is “keen on the move,” and sources suggest that Chelsea are the most advanced club in negotiations over a contract.
RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons. Photo/Fabrizio Romano.
By Robert Assad
Chelsea are making rapid progress in securing personal terms with RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons, pushing ahead of Arsenal and Bayern Munich in the race to sign the Dutch midfielder, according to multiple reports.
Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Simons is “keen on the move,” and sources suggest that Chelsea are the most advanced club in negotiations over a contract.
The 22-year-old, who joined Leipzig in January from Paris Saint-Germain for a base fee of €50 million, is reportedly seeking a Premier League switch after Leipzig failed to qualify for European competition.
Chelsea aim to agree personal terms before initiating club-to-club negotiations. Leipzig are said to value Simons between €60 million and €70 million, though the fee could drop closer to €50 million. Bayern Munich and Arsenal remain in contention, but Chelsea are believed to have moved first and fastest.
Simons enjoyed a standout season in Germany with 10 Bundesliga goals, building on a 19-goal campaign with PSV. Known for his versatility across midfield and attacking positions, he is seen as an ideal fit for head coach Enzo Maresca’s tactical system.
Simultaneously, Chelsea are undergoing a major summer overhaul. Christopher Nkunku is expected to leave, with Bayern interested and the asking price down to approximately £43 million.
João Félix is in talks with Benfica, with Chelsea reportedly open to a 50% sale of his rights. Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell, and Noni Madueke — who is close to joining Arsenal — are also among those linked with exits. Leipzig are monitoring Carney Chukwuemeka as part of their midfield reinforcement strategy.
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