Chelsea are hoping that they can complete multiple pieces of business with RB Leipzig before the summer transfer window comes to an end.
The Blues remain in firm negotiations to sign Xavi Simons this summer after he emerged as one of the top targets to put the finishing touches on their attack.
Despite the long-standing interest in signing the Dutchman, the extended time it is taking to complete the deal is giving other clubs hope of stepping in and sealing the deal.
Manchester City are linked with hijacking Simons, although the player’s personal feeling is that he would rather make the move to Stamford Bridge.
Xavi Simons of RB Leipzig prepares to take a corner kick
Photo by Christian Hofer/Getty Images
It is believed Chelsea need to complete more player sales though before any more signings, and one of those they would love to move on is Christopher Nkunku.
Nkunku’s return to pre-season was postponed amidst interest from other clubs in his signature, and it looks as if he is not in Enzo Maresca’s plans for the 2025/26 season.
Leipzig have emerged as a potential suitor, however journalist Florian Plettenburg has claimed that the Bundesliga side are currently only interested in loaning the Frenchman.
“Xavi Simons has already agreed full terms with Chelsea and is still willing to join Chelsea, waiting patiently. Chelsea are still signalling that they want to finalise the Xavi deal but first need further player offloads.
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“A swap deal involving Christopher Nkunku is currently not being discussed. RB are open to a Nkunku loan. The total Xavi package is currently too expensive for FC Bayern.”
🚨🔵 #Xavi Simons has already agreed full terms with Chelsea and is still willing to join #CFC, waiting patiently.
Chelsea are still signalling that they want to finalise the Xavi deal but first need further player offloads. A swap deal involving Christopher #Nkunku is currently… pic.twitter.com/cFIEWcVnZK
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) August 11, 2025
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Chelsea have already raised significant money through the player sales of the likes of Noni Madueke and Joao Felix, however have offset this with their various signings made.
Christopher Nkunku poses with the trophy after Chelsea FC v Paris Saint-Germain: Final - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Photo by Michael Regan – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Enzo Maresca remains a fan of Christopher Nkunku
Despite it looking clear that he was going to be on the move this summer, Nkunku remained a regular in Maresca’s squad during the Club World Cup in the United States.
The Frenchman scored a huge goal against Benfica to send them on their way to a Round of 16 victory, seeing the manager celebrate on the pitch with his players.
It has been reported that Maresca still rates Nkunku, however his lack of inclusion in either pre-season friendly could signal the end for him.
As well as the France international, Nicolas Jackson also looks set to leave. He is currently training on his own in anticipation of a move.