Chelsea Football Club have initiated decisive talks with RB Leipzig in a bold move to secure the signature of highly-rated Dutch international Xavi Simons, Daily Mail can exclusively reveal.
The West London giants are pushing aggressively to bring the 20-year-old attacking maestro to Stamford Bridge before the summer transfer window slams shut. The proposed deal is understood to be a season-long loan, crucially featuring an option for a permanent transfer next summer.
Pochettino's Prime Target
New manager Mauricio Pochettino has identified Simons as a key priority to bolster his creative options following the departure of several key players. The young prodigy's versatility, capable of operating across the front line and as a number ten, aligns perfectly with the Argentine's tactical demands.
A Complex Negotiation
The negotiation is layered due to Simons' contractual status. While he is currently on the books at RB Leipzig, his rights are owned by French powerhouse Paris Saint-Germain, who inserted a buy-back clause when they sold him. This three-way dynamic adds a significant complication to any potential deal.
Chelsea's hierarchy, led by co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, are driving the discussions. Their strategy appears to be a low-risk, high-reward approach: a loan deal allows them to assess Simons' adaptation to the Premier League before committing a substantial fee.
Why Simons is in Demand
The interest in Xavi Simons is hardly surprising. His explosive breakout season on loan at PSV Eindhoven, where he netted 22 goals, announced him as one of Europe's most exciting prospects. His technical brilliance, vision, and eye for goal have made him one of the most sought-after young talents in world football.
Chelsea faces stern competition for his signature, but the project under Pochettino and the allure of the Premier League could prove decisive. For RB Leipzig, a decision must be made on whether to integrate him immediately or facilitate a move for a hefty profit.
All eyes are now on Leipzig and Chelsea's board as they work to untangle this complex web and potentially pull off one of the window's most exciting transfers.
