RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons is reportedly keen to join Chelsea in the summer transfer window.
According to Fabrizio Romano via X, Xavi Simons has made Chelsea his clear priority this summer, even as links with Bayern Munich and Manchester City continue to swirl. The 22-year-old Dutch playmaker has reportedly told RB Leipzig that Stamford Bridge is the only destination he is focused on, with negotiations now hinging on Chelsea completing player sales before making their move.
Simons has been on Chelsea’s radar since July, when reports first surfaced that the Blues were preparing an offer. Sources close to the deal suggest Chelsea are ready to bid around €60 million, significantly below Leipzig’s €80 million valuation, but the player’s strong desire to join could help tilt the balance in their favour.
Having already splashed out over €250 million this window on signings such as Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, and Jorrel Hato, Chelsea need to free up space in the squad – and balance the books – before committing to such a deal. Still, the West Londoners see Simons as a perfect fit for Enzo Maresca’s project, adding creativity and versatility to an already youthful and dynamic midfield.
Bayern Munich and Manchester City also keen
Despite Xavi Simons’s preference, Bayern Munich and Manchester City are closely monitoring developments. Bayern view him as a natural successor to Kingsley Coman, who has joined Al-Nassr. Meanwhile, Manchester City could make their move if Tottenham secure the signing of Savinho, leaving Pep Guardiola in need of a new attacking option.
Both clubs have the financial muscle to meet Leipzig’s €80 million asking price, which leaves Chelsea in a delicate position: they must act quickly once they finalise outgoings, or risk losing their top target to a direct European rival.
Ready for the next step in his development
Simons’s performances in Germany have made him one of the hottest young talents in Europe. Last season, he produced 10 goals and seven assists in 25 Bundesliga games, showcasing not only his attacking flair but also his maturity in big matches. His ability to operate across attacking roles, as a winger, attacking midfielder, or second striker, makes him an invaluable asset for clubs competing across multiple competitions.
The Dutchman signed a contract running until 2027 when he completed his €50 million move, meaning Leipzig hold the upper hand in negotiations. But the Bundesliga side are open to cashing in on a significant profit after signing him permanently from PSG in January.
The coming weeks will be decisive. Chelsea need to offload players before they can launch their official bid, while Bayern and Manchester City lurk in the background, ready to pounce. For now, though, Xavi Simons is holding firm, as his heart is set on Stamford Bridge.