Fabrizio Romano: Manchester United refuse to back down from heated race for Xavi Simons | OneFootball

Manchester United are refusing to back down from their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain and Netherlands star Xavi Simons despite competition for the player heating up.

Simons proved to be one of the Netherlands’ key players throughout Euro 2024, guiding the Dutch to a semi-final finish.

The 21 year old bagged three assists in the tournament, including two during his nation’s 3-0 thumping of Romania in the round of 16. While he scored the opening goal in the semi-final clash against England, this wasn’t enough to secure passage for the Dutch as Gareth Southgate’s team scored twice to book their place in the final. Notably, Simons also scored what would have been the winner in a tight group stage clash with France, however, his goal was ruled offside, leaving the game goalless. (Transfermarkt)

Following the Dutch defeat to England, United manager Erik ten Hag lathered on praise for Simons. “I enjoyed Xavi Simons in that game (against England). The drive he has, the passion with which he conquers balls and recognises situations are top. His enormous drive as well. That is almost un-Dutch. I think you can see that he was trained abroad. He almost has a southern European doggedness in his game,” the United manager stated.

It appears that Simons’ Euro 2024 heroics left a lasting impression on Ten Hag, with The Peoples Person relaying reports that United began actively pursuing a deal for Simons after his exit from the competition. It was added that while PSG would likely prefer a loan deal with an obligation to buy, £70 million would be sufficient to secure his permanent transfer.

Although it was claimed five days ago that United have already made a significant bid for Simons, no further developments on this front were announced.

In the interim, it appears as if United’s pursuit of Simons has only become more challenging.

Earlier this week, it was reported that RB Leipzig are keen on signing Simons on a permanent deal after his successful loan spell at the club last season. Bayern Munich are reportedly also hot on his heels.

Despite the rise in competition for Simons’ signature, it appears as if United may not be discouraged from pursuing the Dutch talent.

Fabrizio Romano claimed in his Daily Briefing this morning that United’s links to Simons are legitimate and have been long-established.

“Xavi Simons continues to be linked with Manchester United and it’s something realistic because there has long been plenty of interest from him around Europe, including in England,” Romano explained. Still, United appear to be on the back foot when it comes to negotiations.

“I’ve been checking with my sources and they’re still saying the same thing – that Simons is most likely to continue in Germany next season. We know that Bayern Munich are trying to sign Simons, but RB Leipzig are also still absolutely in the mix. Nothing has been decided yet, but it’s between Bayern and Leipzig,” the journalist continued.

While United’s chances of signing Simons may appear to be waning despite the club’s resolve on the matter, it appears that this transfer window could be one of the club’s more successful ones, particularly under the watchful gaze of INEOS.

Following Joshua Zirkzee’s official signing and Leny Yoro’s medical, the club are making strides in their mission to rebuild the squad with young talent ahead of next season.

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