Mikel Arteta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal have emerged as frontrunners to sign highly-rated Dutch forward currently Xavi Simons, who is on loan at RB Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain.
According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Simons is attracting interest from Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool, but the Gunners appear to be leading the pack for the “very complete” attacker.
With Simons unlikely to extend his deal at PSG, a permanent move seems increasingly likely. His release clause, reportedly around £66 million, makes him a viable target for Arsenal, who are keen to strengthen their attacking options. While PSG may attempt to retain the 20-year-old, it is unclear whether he would accept a reduced role under Luis Enrique.
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Arsenal’s pursuit of Simons aligns with Mikel Arteta’s ongoing search for a quality alternative to Bukayo Saka, who has been pivotal for the team this season. Saka has already scored seven goals and provided 11 assists but has also faced injury concerns, including a brief spell on the sidelines after sustaining a leg injury during England’s 2-1 defeat to Greece.
Arsenal - Xavi Simons
Arsenal target Xavi Simons (Image credit: Getty Images)
With the 23-year-old earning £195,000 per week and integral to Arteta’s plans, Arsenal’s need for depth in wide areas has become evident. Potential targets to provide competition or cover include Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, and Lyon’s Rayan Cherki, who may be available for a cut-price fee of £25 million due to Lyon’s financial struggles.
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Dean Jones of GiveMeSport recently noted Arsenal’s growing interest in Cherki, describing him as a “different” talent with immense potential. However, the Gunners’ primary focus appears to be on securing Simons, who has impressed in the Bundesliga this season and is seen as a player capable of making an immediate impact.
Arsenal are expected to make their move for a forward in January or next summer.
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