Chelsea beat Barcelona to the deal to sign RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons for €70 million

Chelsea have overtaken Barcelona in the race to sign Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig, with the Dutch midfielder set to join the Premier League side in a deal worth €70 million (R$457 million or approx. £59 million). According to transfer expert Nicolò Schira, the contract will run through June 2032, underlining the long-term commitment from both club and player.

Simons has already given the green light to a move to London, a key factor that accelerated negotiations between Chelsea and Leipzig. The formalities of the transfer are now being finalized.

Chelsea Secure Versatile Attacking Talent

Simons, 21, impressed in the Bundesliga and Champions League last season, offering a mix of flair, versatility, and tactical awareness. He can operate as a central attacking midfielder, winger, or second striker, making him a valuable addition to Enzo Maresca’s multi-competition squad for 2025/26.

With competition already high in Chelsea’s attacking line featuring Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto, and João Pedro Simons will have to earn his place in the starting XI. His arrival could create selection headaches, especially for Pedro Neto, who ended the last campaign in top form after lifting the Club World Cup.

Barcelona Miss Out Again Due to Financial Struggles

Barcelona were long considered favorites to sign Simons, who had expressed a desire to return to La Liga. However, the Catalan club’s financial constraints made it impossible to match Chelsea’s proposal. The Blaugrana had met with the player’s agents but could not structure a competitive offer.

Now, instead of looking for a direct replacement, Barcelona’s focus is reportedly on player sales particularly offloading three squad members to make room for potential moves for Marcus Rashford and Joan García.