Reported Man City transfer target Xavi Simons has a “clear desire to join Chelsea”, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Both the Cityzens and Bayern Munich have been mentioned as potential suitors for the Netherlands international over the past week or so, but Romano is adamant that the player is prioritising a move to Stamford Bridge:
“Xavi Simons keeps waiting for Chelsea despite Bayern, Man City and more rumours in the recent days.”
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“His clear desire is to join Chelsea, now waiting for CFC to complete sales as always planned since July.”
Simons has been described as an “exceptional player”
Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund has not hidden his admiration for the Dutchman. Speaking about the forward’s talent last summer, he said:
“He is a very good player. He had a very good European Championship and a great season with Leipzig. He’s developed really well.”
“I think he’s going to have a really good career at the highest level. He has everything, mentality, character and is just an exceptional player.”
Man City have looked at several options to replace Savinho
Although Pep Guardiola’s side are hoping to keep hold of the Brazilian, there is strong interest from Tottenham, and the player is said to be very keen on a switch to North London.
If the 21-year-old does leave the Etihad before the transfer window closes, Simons was suggested as a potential replacement, along with Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche.
Romano insists that Rodrygo would be the no.1 option if Savinho were to depart, although it must be emphasised that the Real forward would not be available on the cheap.
Reports in the Spanish media have claimed that the winger could cost between €90m (£77.5m) and €100m (£86m). To fund such a move, City would need to get as much as they can for Savinho.
Read more about the Man City First Team Squad for 2025/26 here