Chelsea Push Forward in Xavi Simons Pursuit as Player Exchange Deal Takes Shape
Chelsea are making headway in their bid to secure RB Leipzig's attacking midfielder Xavi Simons, according to German media reports, and may enhance their offer while Leipzig shows interest in Carney Chukwuemeka
Simons remains a constant fixture in transfer speculation. The 22-year-old Dutch international has already featured for top-tier clubs across the Netherlands, Spain, France and Germany. Chelsea aim to add England to the versatile playmaker's impressive resume.
Despite already investing heavily in attacking players this summer, Chelsea have been linked with a move for Simons. Following initial talks with the player's agents, the Blues are "progressing" toward agreed personal terms, Fabrizio Romano confirms.
While no direct negotiations with Leipzig regarding Simons have occurred yet, communication channels have been established concerning a possible transfer for Carney Chukwuemeka, according to Sky Germany.
The English midfielder was rapidly identified as surplus to requirements at Chelsea under Enzo Maresca. Following half a season without playing time, Chukwuemeka gained some valuable first-team experience during his loan spell at Borussia Dortmund in the latter half of the 2024–25 season. Despite receiving significant acclaim from coach Niko Kovač, the 21-year-old returned to west London this summer.
Chelsea have shown reluctance to sanction another loan arrangement for Chukwuemeka while Dortmund appear hesitant to pursue a permanent acquisition. Leipzig's position on a potential deal remains unclear and could be influenced by Simons negotiations.
RB Leipzig are reportedly seeking a transfer fee of no less than €70 million (£60.8 million, $82.1 million)—which would push Chelsea's summer spending beyond €300 million (£260.4 million, $351.9 million), rivaling the unprecedented amounts associated with Liverpool.
Simons would join an extensive roster of attacking midfielders and wingers at Stamford Bridge that currently features Cole Palmer, João Pedro, Estêvão, Pedro Neto, Jamie Gittens and Tyrique George. This comprehensive list doesn't even account for the club's unwanted players—including João Félix, Raheem Sterling and Christopher Nkunku—who remain without new destinations.