Chelsea open talks to sign RB Lepzig star Xavi Simons | OneFootball

Chelsea have opened talks to sign RB Leipzig talent Xavi Simons, Florian Plettenberg reports.

According to the Sky reporter, Chelsea have opened talks with the player’s camp to see if they can agree personal terms before initiating negotiations with Leipzig.

Nothing is set in stone and negotiations are still at an early stage, but Plettenberg reckons that Chelsea is the most “concrete” option for Simons as things stand.

Arsenal and Bayern Munich are also interested, but both clubs have their hands full at the moment.

The Gunners are still negotiating a deal to sign Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP, while Bayern are on the market for a left winger and have Liverpool’s Luis Diaz on their radar.

Chelsea are leading the race for Simons, and the new regime has a knack for avoiding long-drawn-out transfer sagas, so this deal could progress quickly in the coming days.

Champions League qualification and recently being crowned world champions have certainly helped Chelsea reclaim their status among Europe’s elite.

And with a youthful project finally blossoming at Stamford Bridge, the Blues are an enticing option for young players around the world.

Chelsea are also interested in Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, but Simons could be a more cost-effective option, considering the Villans have ruled out a potential summer exit for the Englishman.

Simons has been described as an ‘exceptional’ player and will further bolster Chelsea’s star-studded attacking options. But it could also spell the end for Christopher Nkunku.

The Frenchman could be on his way out of the club amid interest from Bayern and Manchester United.

Chelsea wouldn’t stand in his way if the right offer comes through. But that wouldn’t stop them from pushing to sign Simons.

The Netherlands international is considered one of the finest talents across Europe, and he would be a statement signing for Chelsea.

Simons can play in several attacking positions, and Maresca is a big fan of versatile players.

Reports in Germany claim Leipzig will demand around €80m (£69.3m) for Simons, but Chelsea will be hoping to negotiate a lower fee by sweetening the deal with a favourable structure.