Chelsea transfer target Xavi Simons is “in London” to discuss a transfer ahead of the transfer deadline on Monday, according to The Telegraph reporter Matt Law.
The journalist has confirmed reports in Germany that the RB Leizpig player has travelled to the UK. There have been reports that Tottenham are looking to hijack the Blues’ move for the Dutchman but it appears both clubs have an equal chance of securing his signature. Supporters on X are now debating whether their team will buy Simons ahead of their London rivals:
As long as we're there, we win
— Jerry Beans Man (@JimmySpace123) August 28, 2025
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Spurs? What they smoking at 3 points lane 😂😂
— BLACK CURRY (@promise_ne63949) August 28, 2025
We won't sign this guy. We should be leading the race instead of being alongside
— Alonso (@TheguyZino_11) August 28, 2025
Chels have to move fast
— 𝘘.𝘋🥷🏾 (@AdedamolaO90048) August 28, 2025
This is a one horse race then. 🤷🏻♂️
— MOH #Cfc (@FamzLilz) August 28, 2025
As long as we’re still in it, there’s hope. Xavi Simons in blue would be special. 💙
— Alfred (@Blues_Alfred) August 28, 2025
Spurs’s involvement complicates negotiations for Chelsea
One of the reasons why Chelsea have not completed a deal for Simons up until now is due to Leipzig’s asking price.
The Bundesliga club were demanding £60m, and Enzo Maresca’s side were hoping to drive down the fee, knowing that the player was keen on making the switch to Stamford Bridge.
However, Tottenham’s involvement means that the chances of Leipzig dropping their demands have greatly diminished.
Will Nkunku’s departure unlock the Simons deal?
The short answer to that question is ‘no’. Christopher Nkunku’s sale to AC Milan is only expected to raise €35m (£30m), at least initially, and that is around half of what Chelsea need to sign his potential replacement.
There are also now suggestions that the Nkunku money will be used to purchase Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho, who is set to cost between £35m and £40m.
Maresca is said to have prioritised a move for a winger, so that is why Garnacho’s transfer is set to be rubberstamped first.
Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here