Liverpool target €80m star with Klopp and Gravenberch consulted | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Midfield Evolution: Simons on the Radar as Slot Eyes Reinforcements

As champions of England once again, Liverpool are planning their next move—not just in silverware, but in squad evolution. According to TeamTalk, the Reds are setting their sights on Dutch wonderkid Xavi Simons, with plans to consult former boss Jürgen Klopp and midfielder Ryan Gravenberch before making any firm bid.

The 2024–25 campaign was expected to be transitional. Yet Arne Slot, whose popularity among supporters has soared thanks to his slick, attacking style, has turned expectation into exhilaration. A Premier League title, a Carabao Cup final, and stylistic continuity have silenced any early doubts. Still, there is no resting on laurels. Liverpool know reinforcements are vital, especially with domestic rivals ready to splash the cash.

Photo IMAGO

Simons: A Rising Star in Red Sights

The Netherlands international Xavi Simons, 22, has emerged as a serious target. Creative, versatile, and boasting eye-catching stats—11 goals and 8 assists across 33 appearances—Simons is the type of high-ceiling signing that fits both Liverpool’s tactical identity and recruitment profile. Able to play as an attacking midfielder or left-winger, he brings flexibility and flair in equal measure.

“Rousing The Kop has reported that Liverpool have their eyes on Xavi Simons as well.”

Intensive background checks have reportedly already been conducted. What’s more intriguing is that Klopp—now Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull following his Liverpool departure—might still play a role in this next chapter.

“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,” adds the report.

Such reverence for Klopp’s insight, even post-departure, underlines the cultural weight he still carries at the club.

Influential Voices and Shared Dressing Rooms

Liverpool aren’t stopping with Klopp. Slot reportedly also wants to speak with Ryan Gravenberch, one of his most improved players this season, to gauge the temperament and team ethic of Simons, his international teammate.

“Rousing The Kop has added that Liverpool also plan to speak to Ryan Gravenberch to know more about the character of Simons, who, according to his former Leipzig team-mate Dani Olmo on the German club’s official website in February 2024, is ‘a really complete player’ and ‘has an amazing dribbling technique’.”

Gravenberch, having thrived in the number six role, is well-placed to offer insight—not only tactically, but culturally.

Leipzig, however, are firm on their valuation. According to Sky Germany, the Bundesliga side want €80 million (£67.2m) for Simons—no discount for interested suitors.

Simons Speaks Out Amid Leipzig’s European Absence

Simons, who made his Leipzig loan from PSG permanent in January 2025, hasn’t dismissed the possibility of a move. When asked about his future in April, he told Sky Germany:

“I’m still a young player, I have many dreams – and the club knows that. But right now, the most important thing for me is to play well in the upcoming games. Then we have the international matches, and after that we’ll sit down and see what happens.”

With Leipzig finishing seventh and missing out on European football for the first time in seven years, discontent may breed opportunity. A club of Liverpool’s calibre, with Champions League football and a compelling sporting project, would surely appeal.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Excited Liverpool fans should be licking their lips at this development. Xavi Simons isn’t just a typical young flair player—he’s already putting up elite-level numbers in a top-five league. His dribbling technique and positional fluidity would give Arne Slot’s system even more firepower, especially with a number ten role still open for a regular occupant.

What’s particularly fascinating is the club’s decision to loop in Jürgen Klopp. While he’s no longer calling the shots at Anfield, his influence remains revered. If he gives Simons the nod, that endorsement could be pivotal. Similarly, Ryan Gravenberch’s glowing insight would reassure Liverpool’s hierarchy of Simons’ character, which matters deeply to a team built on unity and discipline.

That said, the £67.2m price tag is no small outlay. With Florian Wirtz also on the radar, Liverpool must decide whether to go all-in on one marquee playmaker or spread their funds. Either way, fans will appreciate the ambition.

If Simons does make the switch, it would signal a new era of forward-thinking recruitment under Slot—one built on intelligent evolution, not risky revolution.