Chelsea’s pursuit of Dutch playmaker Xavi Simons remains alive, but a deal is far from straightforward. Despite agreeing personal terms with the 22-year-old RB Leipzig star, the Blues must overcome financial restrictions, player sales, and strong competition before a transfer can be finalised.
Personal Terms Agreed – But Price Tag Stands Firm
Simons has already given the green light to a move to Stamford Bridge, with his representatives reportedly finalising the framework of a contract. However, RB Leipzig have placed a €70 million (£60 million) valuation on the midfielder – a fee Chelsea cannot commit to without first making space on their wage bill and balancing their books to comply with UEFA’s Financial Fair Play rules.
Outgoings the Key to Unlocking the Deal
Chelsea’s hierarchy is working to move on several first-team players to raise funds and open up squad space. Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku, and Raheem Sterling have all been linked with potential exits.
A proposed swap deal involving Nkunku’s return to Leipzig has been floated, but the Bundesliga side are unconvinced, largely due to the forward’s high wages and their preference for a straight cash deal.
Rivals Circle as Chelsea Deliberate
The delay in reaching an agreement has opened the door for other European heavyweights. Manchester City are reportedly considering a late hijack, while Bayern Munich and Arsenal are monitoring the situation closely.
For Leipzig, letting Simons go will only happen if they secure a suitable replacement – with Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott emerging as a top target.
The Road Ahead
Chelsea remain in pole position thanks to their agreement with the player, but every day without a breakthrough increases the risk of losing him to a rival. Club insiders insist the Blues are still pushing to close the deal before the transfer window shuts, but the outcome now hinges on whether they can generate the required funds in time.
Bottom line: The door for Xavi Simons to Chelsea is still open – but only just. The next two weeks could determine whether the Dutch star joins Mauricio Pochettino’s project or slips away to a competitor.
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