Xavi Simons Snubs Arsenal and Gives Chelsea Green Light for Transfer Talks
RB Leipzig midfielder wants Premier League move and prioritizes Chelsea over Gunners
Xavi Simons has made a decisive move regarding his future. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder has informed RB Leipzig of his desire to leave during the current transfer window and has given Chelsea the go-ahead to begin negotiations, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Dutch international, who impressed for Leipzig and at Euro 2024, is now set to become a top priority for the Blues, with formal talks expected to begin in the coming days.
Arsenal Interest Rejected
Simons was also on the radar of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, who reportedly had a tactical pitch and project in mind to integrate him into their squad. However, Simons was not convinced by the Gunners’ current structure, given their established front line of Saka, Martinelli, and Ødegaard.
Despite Arsenal’s Champions League credentials, Simons opted for a club where he could play a more central role in the rebuild.
Chelsea Seen as the Best Career Move
At Chelsea, new manager Enzo Maresca is building a younger and more dynamic team a project that has reportedly appealed to Simons. The Dutchman is expected to feature as a regular starter, either as a left winger or in a more central number 10 role.
This strategic fit and the chance for more consistent game time were key factors in the player’s decision.
Projected Chelsea Line-Up with Simons
If the deal is completed, Maresca could line up Chelsea in the following system:
Sánchez; James, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Enzo Fernández; Neto, Palmer, Simons; João Pedro.
Simons’s arrival could inject much-needed creativity and versatility into the squad as Chelsea aims to bounce back from a disappointing Premier League campaign and make a strong push domestically and in Europe.
