Chelsea are preparing to submit an official offer for RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons, as the club looks to strengthen its midfield ahead of the new season. The 21-year-old Dutch international has become one of Chelsea’s top targets this summer, with Premier League rivals Arsenal also showing interest.
Talks between Chelsea and Leipzig have reportedly progressed in recent days, with the German side open to a sale if a bid in the region of €70 million is made. Encouraged by recent discussions, Chelsea are expected to move quickly in hopes of sealing the deal before Arsenal can make their move.
New manager Enzo Maresca has already been backed in the transfer market, with Jamie Gittens, Joao Pedro, and Liam Delap joining the club in deals worth a combined £160 million. Yet Chelsea’s rebuild continues, with the club determined to add both experienced and emerging talent before the transfer window closes.
Alongside Simons, Chelsea are also targeting Ajax’s highly rated 19-year-old defender Jorrel Hato. Personal terms with the Dutchman are believed to be agreed, and a full agreement between both clubs appears to be close.
The Blues are also nurturing future stars. South American wonderkids Estevao and Kendry Paez, both aged 18, are set to play key roles in the first team this coming season, highlighting the club’s long-term development strategy.
While Arsenal continue to weigh up their options regarding Simons, Chelsea’s more proactive approach could give them the edge. With positive signals coming from Leipzig, the West London club are confident they can secure the midfielder’s signature in the coming days.
Simons, who has also been linked with Manchester United in the past, is seen as one of the brightest attacking midfield prospects in Europe. Should Chelsea get the deal over the line, it would mark another major statement of intent as the club looks to return to the top of English and European football under Maresca’s leadership.
