Xavi Simons Nears Chelsea Move as Transfer Talks Advance

Chelsea are closing in on signing RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons, with the Netherlands international keen to join the Club World Cup champions for the 2025/26 season, alongside Ajax’s Jorrel Hato, who is also nearing a long-term deal with the Blues. Simons, 22, fueled speculation by removing RB Leipzig’s official account from his Instagram bio, leaving only Puma, prompting widespread discussion on social media.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported on July 31, 2025, that Chelsea’s pursuit of Simons hinges on further player sales to fund the transfer and meet Leipzig’s valuation, which is under €70 million but higher than Chelsea’s preferred amount. The club has already raised £135.7 million from sales, including Kepa Arrizabalaga (£5m to Arsenal), Noni Madueke (£48.5m to Arsenal), João Félix (£44m to Al-Nassr), Djordje Petrovic (£25m to Bournemouth), Bashir Humphreys (£14.7m to Burnley), and Marcus Bettinelli (nominal fee to Manchester City). Additional departures, potentially including Christopher Nkunku, Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile, and Nicolas Jackson, are being considered to bolster funds.

Simons, who recorded eight goals and 11 assists in the 2024/25 season, is seen as a versatile attacking midfielder to support Cole Palmer, with personal terms expected to be straightforward due to his enthusiasm for the move. Chelsea’s recent signings, including João Pedro, Liam Delap, and Jamie Gittens, reflect their ambition for the Champions League, but further squad trimming is necessary to accommodate Simons and Hato.

Source: African Publicity