Arsenal are keen on signing Xavi Simons
Arsenal have entered the race to sign RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons, aiming to edge out Premier League rivals Chelsea by using a strategic advantage off the pitch.
According to sources close to the negotiations, the Gunners are banking on the strong personal connection between their sporting director Andrea Berta and Simons’ agent, Ali Barat, to push through a deal for the 22-year-old Dutch international. Barat, who also represents Arsenal winger Noni Madueke, played a pivotal role in bringing the former Chelsea player to the Emirates a move the club now hopes to replicate.
Simons, who has expressed a strong desire to play in the Premier League, has attracted interest from multiple English clubs, with Chelsea initially considered a frontrunner. However, Arsenal’s late entry, backed by influential behind-the-scenes ties, has shifted the dynamics of the transfer battle.
The Leipzig midfielder, who wears the number 10 shirt, would bring both creativity and flexibility to Mikel Arteta’s squad. Last season, Simons featured in 33 matches and was directly involved in 19 goals demonstrating his ability to impact games from multiple attacking positions.
Tactically, Simons fits seamlessly into Arteta’s system. With Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Ødegaard, and Bukayo Saka typically operating behind the striker, the Dutchman could provide critical depth and competition across all three positions. Analysts suggest he could rotate with Martinelli on the left, serve as an alternative to Ødegaard in the central creative role, or offer support on the right for Saka, one of the club’s top performers.
Despite his youth, Simons already boasts experience at elite European clubs including Paris Saint-Germain, PSV Eindhoven, and his current side, RB Leipzig. His rapid development and high ceiling make him a standout target in this summer’s transfer window.
Should Arsenal succeed in securing his signature, it would represent a significant coup both in terms of squad depth and market signaling further cementing the club’s ambitions to challenge for major silverware in the upcoming season.
