RB Leipzig confirms Xavi Simons transfer talks with Chelsea, Arsenal interest continues

Chelsea FC is actively pursuing RB Leipzig midfielder Xavi Simons amid the summer transfer window, with personal terms reportedly close to agreement despite no official club-to-club talks yet. Simons, who recently completed a permanent move to Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain in January, is valued around €70 million, but Chelsea aims to negotiate a deal possibly below that figure, contingent on outgoing transfers such as Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku. The 22-year-old Dutch international, who has long admired Chelsea and had a trial there early in his career, has shown versatility and productivity, contributing 11 goals and eight assists last season, making him a strategic target for Chelsea to bolster their attacking options following the sale of Noni Madueke. Leipzig's failure to qualify for European competition and Simons' two years remaining on his contract suggest the club's openness to a transfer, with Bayern Munich and Arsenal also expressing interest, while Barcelona has cooled its pursuit. Chelsea's pursuit aligns with their need to deepen their squad ahead of a demanding season, especially after their Club World Cup victory and absence from pre-season tours. Discussions between Chelsea and Leipzig are expected to continue imminently as Chelsea prepares for the Premier League season.