- Xavi Simons wants Premier League move
- Leipzig want at least €70m for Simons
- No formal bid yet from the Blues
Simons has agreed personal terms with Chelsea but remains an Leipzig player as no official offer has been made. According to Bild the Bundesliga club want at least €70 million (£60m/$77m) for the Dutchman, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain in January for €50m (£43m/$55m). The Blues, however, are only willing to pay between €50m and €55m (£50m/$66m) and have yet to table a formal bid. In preparation for his potential exit, Leipzig are eyeing Liverpool‘s Elliott as a replacement.
Simons, one of Europe’s brightest young talents, played 33 matches in all competitions last season, scoring 11 goals and providing eight assists. His strong mentality and fitness levels after extra summer training make him a prime target for top clubs. Like soon-to-depart Benjamin Sesko, who is set to join United, Simons dreams of a Premier League move.
The 22-year-old has missed training this week due to illness, putting his participation in Leipzig’s upcoming friendly against Lens in doubt. He also sat out their previous match against Atalanta with neck problems. Despite the transfer uncertainty, Die Roten Bullen are ready to negotiate if Chelsea make a concrete offer but until then, Simons will continue to train with the squad.
The Blues must decide whether to raise their bid to meet Leipzig’s valuation or risk losing Simons to another suitor. Meanwhile, Leipzig will monitor his fitness ahead of the club friendly against Lens and continue preparations for the new season with Elliott as their preferred successor.
