Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City are considering hijacking Chelsea’s move for Dutch attacking sensation Xavi Simons.
According to Sebastien Vidal, Manchester City are considering making a move for Xavi Simons in the final phase of the transfer window. Pep Guardiola’s team could try to hijack Chelsea’s move for the Dutch international. While the Blues have an agreement on personal terms with the player, they have yet to agree on a deal with RB Leipzig, leaving the door open for City to make a last-ditch attempt.
While things didn’t go according to plan for Simons at PSG, he has turned things around with multiple loan spells. He joined Leipzig on an initial loan deal in the summer of 2023. It was a two-year-long loan deal, but the Bundesliga outfit made the move permanent back in January.
He still has two years left on his deal at the German club, but Simons is keen on taking the next step in his career. He is eager to join a bigger club. While Leipzig are ready to cash in on him, they will only sanction his departure on their own terms.
Chelsea could face competition from City
Chelsea have been the most serious suitors for the 22-year-old attacking midfielder since the start of the summer. The Blues seek more creativity in the final third, and Simons is an ideal fit for their project. His ability to feature as a number ten as well as out wide on the flanks could give Enzo Maresca multiple tactical options.
The London club have already agreed personal terms with the Dutch international as he is keen on moving to Stamford Bridge. However, the deal is far from done as Chelsea are yet to strike a deal with Leipzig.
While both clubs continue to negotiate, there is still an opportunity for another club to try to hijack the deal. Manchester City are considering making a move for Simons in the coming days. Guardiola is a big admirer of the 22-year-old and believes he could be a perfect fit for his system.
With Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish no longer at the club, Simons could prove to be a valuable addition because of his versatility. The transfer deadline is fast approaching, and it will be interesting to see if City can leapfrog Chelsea to his signature.