Liverpool Step Up Interest in £67m Midfielder Ahead of Transfer Window | OneFootball

Liverpool Assess Xavi Simons with Klopp’s Input Expected

Plans Begin for Next Chapter Under Slot

Liverpool’s title-winning season under Arne Slot may have exceeded expectations, but the message from within Anfield is clear: rest is not an option. With Premier League rivals preparing to spend, the Reds are also drawing up their summer strategy — and at the top of the list is RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons.

As reported by Rousing The Kop, Liverpool are said to have carried out “intensive background checks” on the 22-year-old Netherlands international, having played as both an attacking midfielder and left-winger in this season.

Simons, who registered 11 goals and eight assists in 33 appearances, has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting attacking talents. His dribbling and flair caught the eye in Germany, and now he is firmly in the sights of the Premier League elite.

Klopp’s Role Could Prove Pivotal

A fascinating twist in Liverpool’s pursuit lies in the familiar figure of Jürgen Klopp. Now Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull, the German manager remains highly respected at Anfield and is expected to play a subtle advisory role.

Photo: IMAGO

“With former boss Jurgen Klopp now onboard with Red Bull, the Reds are also prepared to seek the legendary former Liverpool manager’s advice before moving ahead with a transfer,” the report mentions.

It’s a unique situation. Klopp, once Liverpool’s guiding light, now holds insights into Simons’ character and development — insights that Liverpool could benefit from as they assess whether the €80 million price tag, reported by Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, reflects the right value for their squad.

Gravenberch Connection Another Key Factor

Liverpool’s diligence goes further. TEAMtalk note that the club also plan to “speak to Ryan Gravenberch to know more about the character of Simons.” The pair share time together in the Dutch national side, and Gravenberch has enjoyed a fine season as Liverpool’s number six.

Simons, still just 22, has drawn praise from former teammates too. Leipzig midfielder Dani Olmo was quoted earlier this year as saying: “He is a really complete player… has an amazing dribbling technique.” High praise, and not unearned.

His contract at Leipzig runs until 2027, following a permanent switch from PSG in January 2025. Yet, in April, Simons hinted at a possible exit: the door to a Premier League move, perhaps, is ajar.

Photo IMAGO

Premier League Champions Show No Complacency

With Florian Wirtz also linked to Anfield, Liverpool’s search for attacking reinforcements appears targeted and intelligent. The key will be ensuring that the next addition complements Slot’s high-energy, high-pressing style. Simons, capable of operating in tight spaces and thriving in transition, fits the mould.

After winning the Premier League and reaching a domestic cup final, Slot has laid a strong foundation. But in a league that punishes complacency, Liverpool are wise to look forward — and Simons might just be the future.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Liverpool, targeting Xavi Simons feels like a natural evolution of the squad. Arne Slot has already worked wonders in his first year, but the one area that could still use fine-tuning is creative depth in the final third. Simons offers exactly that — a player who can unlock defences, carry the ball under pressure and produce moments of brilliance from wide or central areas.

The €80 million fee is steep, but when you consider what Simons could become under Slot — with guidance from teammates like Gravenberch and potentially Klopp’s backing — it becomes a more sensible investment. He’s young, driven, and has the kind of technical quality that thrives at Anfield.

It’s also reassuring that Liverpool are doing this the right way. Speaking to Gravenberch, checking in with Klopp — these are signs of a thoughtful, joined-up recruitment process. Simons isn’t just a name; he’s a fit for the system and the culture.

With Manchester City and Arsenal sure to reload in the transfer market, Liverpool fans will want their club to stay competitive. Signing someone like Simons wouldn’t just maintain momentum — it would build on it.