Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea have received a massive boost in their pursuit of Manchester City attacking target Xavi Simons.
According to Florian Plettenberg, Manchester City are also interested in acquiring the services of Xavi Simons, but the Dutch international does not appear keen on joining Pep Guardiola’s side. He prefers a move to Stamford Bridge and is hopeful that Leipzig and Chelsea can reach an agreement in the coming days.
While things didn’t go according to plan for him at PSG, he successfully revived his career with loan spells away from the French club. He joined Leipzig back in 2023 on a two-year-long loan. On the back of his impressive performances, the German club made the move permanent back in January.
Simons still has two years left on his contract at Leipzig, but he seems ready to take the next step in his career. Meanwhile, the Bundesliga giants are also ready to cash in on him as long as their financial demands are met.
While multiple top clubs have been linked with the 22-year-old attacking midfielder, Chelsea, by far, have been the most serious suitor. The Blues might have made significant additions to their attack this summer, but they are still looking for more quality in the final third.
Chelsea remain in the driving seat
Enzo Maresca seeks more creativity in the centre of the park, and Simons is a top target for them, as he can feature and add that spark from the number ten role, as well as feature on either flank. They have been working on a potential transfer for weeks.
While the Blues are looking to close the deal, Manchester City have entered the race and are looking to hijack the deal. However, the player doesn’t seem keen on joining them. Guardiola’s team is not a hot topic for the Dutch sensation.
He is fully focused on moving to Stamford Bridge and is hoping the Blues can soon reach an agreement with Leipzig. The London club remain patient in their pursuit of the 22-year-old, who currently earns €14 million gross (if all bonuses are triggered), and the deal is still very much on.