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<p>Initial Discussions</p>
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<img alt="Wanted by Chelsea - Why Xavi Simons is ready to move on from RB Leipzig this summer" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/xavi-simons-to-chelsea-1753134953-172843.png" title="Wanted by Chelsea - Why Xavi Simons is ready to move on from RB Leipzig this summer">
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<p>There is finally progress concerning Xavi Simons' future. Following an inquiry from Bayern Munich that lead to other pursuits, both Arsenal and Chelsea have expressed serious interest in acquiring the RB Leipzig playmaker. Sources have corroborated a report by Fabrizio Romano, indicating that Xavi is keen to leave the Bundesliga club. However, market options have been somewhat constrained. Now, as late July approaches and clubs start to make moves, momentum may be building for Xavi to depart Leipzig.</p>
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<p>Currently, Chelsea appears to be the most viable option. Under owner Todd Boehly, the club has been highly active in the transfer market, and the Dutch international could soon join the roster of new arrivals. According to Sky's report, Chelsea has reached out to Xavi’s representatives to discuss a potential transfer. If an agreement is made with Xavi’s camp, Chelsea is prepared to make an offer to Leipzig. Transfermarkt reports that the Red Bulls are looking for around €70 million for the player, who is contracted until 2027.</p>
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<p>If a deal is struck, Simons would become the third player transferred from Leipzig to Chelsea for a fee exceeding €50 million since 2020, following the signings of Timo Werner for €53 million in 2020 and Christopher Nkunku for €60 million plus add-ons in 2023—both of which rank among the top ten most expensive outgoing transfers in Leipzig’s history. Chelsea has already invested €243.8 million this summer, more than any other club. Their signings include playmaker Kendry Páez and winger Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund. While Páez and Simons share similar playing styles, the Ecuadorian is set to be loaned to partner club Strasbourg. Although Gittens and Simons can both operate on the left, the new signing from Dortmund plays a more traditional winger role compared to Simons.</p>
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<h2>Why does Chelsea want Xavi Simons? Versatility across positions</h2>
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<p>Despite having the largest squad in the Premier League with 44 players under contract, adding Simons makes strategic sense for Chelsea. His ability to play both as a playmaker and behind a central striker means he could serve as an excellent backup to Cole Palmer and an upgrade over João Félix. On the left wing, Simons competes with Gittens, Tyrique George, and the currently suspended Mykhaylo Mudryk. Additionally, Simons has experience playing on the right wing. His versatility would provide Chelsea with valuable options, even in an already deep squad.</p>
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<p>Player Comparison</p>
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<p>€70.00m</p>
<p>Market Value</p>
<p>€120.00m</p>
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<p>Attacking Midfield</p>
<p>Position</p>
<p>Attacking Midfield</p>
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<p>Jun 30, 2027</p>
<p>Contract until</p>
<p>Jun 30, 2033</p>
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<p><span>Full Player Comparison</span>
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<p>Why is Xavi available? In 2023, Leipzig borrowed Xavi from PSG, and the loan was extended for the 2024/25 season, featuring an option for a permanent transfer at an additional €50 million, which was activated last January. Under this agreement, PSG will earn a percentage of any future transfer profits. Initially, Leipzig activated the purchase option to secure the player's value and allow time to negotiate a new contract. However, they missed out on European competition, making an extension unfeasible.</p>
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<p>This situation has prompted Xavi to seek a move away from the Bundesliga club. His relationship with Leipzig has soured in recent months, despite his impressive performance on the pitch—scoring 18 goals and providing 20 assists in 57 Bundesliga appearances when fit. Despite internal conflicts involving more than just Xavi, he has expressed his affinity for the city and the club, but ultimately, both parties seem ready to part ways.</p>
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