Newcastle United Are Facing Tough Competition For This Bundesliga Playmaker: Good Fit For Howe? | OneFootball

In a recent edition, Sport Bild mentioned that Newcastle United are facing tough competition for Red Bull Leipzig playmaker Xavi Simons. It has been revealed that the Magpies would have to rival Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Arsenal in pursuit of the Dutch attacker this summer.

Simons’ Good Run Of Form In The Bundesliga

Simons had a decent campaign at the German club after he put in a string of impressive displays for them in the final third. The 22-year-old registered 11 goals and grabbed eight assists in 33 matches for RB Leipzig last season across various competitions.

The Dutch attacker managed to catch the eye as he averaged 2.09 shots per 90 minutes in the Bundesliga. He kept 46% of his attempts on target. Simons even distributed the ball well in the opposition half as he completed 78.6% of his attempted passes in the German first division (stats via fbref.com).

His current contract at the German club will expire in the summer of 2027 which could make it difficult for Newcastle to land him on the cheap this off-season.

BREMEN, GERMANY – MAY 10: Xavi Simons of RB Leipzig shoots during the Bundesliga match between SV Werder Bremen and RB Leipzig at Weserstadion on May 10, 2025 in Bremen, Germany. (Photo by Fabio Deinert/Getty Images)

Is Xavi Simons A Good Fit For Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe?

Simons is a good dribbler with the ball and can make some driving runs with it in and around the opponent’s penalty area. He has got the eye to play some decisive passes in the final third and can strike the ball with venom from long range. Simon did well to chip in by scoring and creating his fair share of goals in the final third.

The Dutch sensation is primarily an attacking midfielder but can also operate as a wide player on either flank if required. However, only time will tell whether he can cope with the physical side and high intensity of the Premier League if the Magpies manage to snap him up this summer.

Simons would enhance the quality of Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe’s attack. He is good enough to compete for a regular starting place at St. James’ Park next season.

At 22, the future looks quite bright for Simons as long as he continues to improve with each year. However, Howe needs to be patient with his development before he can unlock the best out of the talented playmaker at the Tyneside club.