Chelsea face late Manchester City transfer competition for Xavi Simons | OneFootball

Manchester City could now pose a threat to Chelsea’s ongoing transfer pursuit of Dutch international Xavi Simons, according to reports.

The 22-year-old has been one of the most sought-after names in European football this summer, with his explosive pace, technical control, and ability to operate across multiple attacking positions making him a top target for several elite clubs.

While Chelsea have been leading the chase for his signature over the course of the last few days and weeks, Manchester City’s late intervention could now change the entire landscape of the deal.

City’s renewed interest comes at a time when their own wide options are undergoing a shake-up, as Brazilian winger Savinho is somewhat expected to join Tottenham before the window closes at the end of August.

That impending exit would leave Pep Guardiola’s squad short on natural wide attackers, prompting the club to explore high-level replacements who can make an instant impact both domestically and in the UEFA Champions League.

For Chelsea, the push for Xavi Simons is part of their broader strategy under Enzo Maresca to add dynamic attacking talent capable of breaking down stubborn defences. The Stamford Bridge outfit have been heavily linked with the Dutchman for weeks, holding talks and reportedly enjoying mutual interest with the player.

However, according to new claims from journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Manchester City have now entered the race for RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons, amid the likely departure of Savinho to Tottenham in the coming days or weeks.

It is claimed that City officials have now re-established contact with the Netherlands international’s agent Ali Barat in an attempt to lure the player away from ongoing interest and talks with Chelsea.

From the side of the West London club, it is claimed that talks are still on and that there remains mutual interest to finalise a deal at Stamford Bridge.

Should City succeed in hijacking Chelsea’s move, Simons would become the latest high-profile addition to Pep Guardiola’s attacking arsenal and could be moulded into a versatile operator much like Phil Foden or Bernardo Silva.

His ability to cut inside from the wing, operate centrally, or drop deeper to influence build-up play makes him an attractive option for Manchester City’s fluid system. Chelsea, meanwhile, may be forced into swift action to protect their long-running pursuit.

That could involve accelerating negotiations, offering a more lucrative personal package, or structuring a deal with RB Leipzig that benefits all parties.

With the Premier League season fast approaching and both clubs eager to strengthen, the battle for Xavi Simons could become one of the window’s most high-profile transfer tussles in the weeks that remain in the ongoing market.