Xavi Simons Drops Bombshell on Chelsea and Man City as Dream Destination Emerges
RB Leipzig's sporting director Marcel Schäfer has issued a stern warning to clubs pursuing midfielder Xavi Simons, stating they will maintain their firm stance regarding any potential summer move.
Chelsea have been actively pursuing Simons for several weeks but now encounter competition from Bayern Munich, with reports also suggesting Manchester City as potential contenders as they prepare for a possible exit of Tottenham-linked Savinho.
Following his absence from pre-season training due to transfer speculation, Simons rejoined the Leipzig squad over the weekend, netting a goal and providing an assist in their 4–2 DFB-Pokal triumph against Sandhausen. Post-match, Schäfer delivered a clear message to clubs interested in securing Simons's services.
"Any transfer must satisfy both sporting and economic criteria," the sporting director stated to ZDF. "Should these conditions not be met, Xavi will remain an RB Leipzig player for the upcoming season."
Despite this assertive position, Leipzig are believed to be willing to part ways with Simons following his expressed desire to join Chelsea earlier in the transfer window. The Dutch midfielder has dropped hints on social media regarding his transfer ambitions and is reportedly taking steps to facilitate a move to Stamford Bridge.
Per ESPN, this includes directly communicating his preference to the club, expressing his desire to join Chelsea ahead of City or Bayern.
Chelsea are reportedly prepared to invest up to €60 million (£51.8 million, $70.2 million) to secure Simons this summer, though the Blues must first create squad space before finalizing any deal. Former Leipzig player Christopher Nkunku has been mentioned as a potential part-exchange option, although Bayern currently lead the pursuit for the French forward.
Simons isn't Chelsea's sole target, as they're also exploring a move for Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho. Enzo Maresca's team are believed to want both players but require additional squad space to accommodate new signings.