Arsenal Face Big Transfer Decision as Midfielder Emerges as Eze Alternative

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·24 de julho de 2025

Arsenal Face Big Transfer Decision as Midfielder Emerges as Eze Alternative

Fresh reports have placed Arsenal firmly in the conversation for Xavi Simons, with growing speculation that the Dutch international could be an alternative target to Eberechi Eze this summer.

Simons expected to leave Leipzig

RB Leipzig endured a disappointing 2024-25 campaign, falling short of Champions League qualification. As a result, Simons is reportedly looking for a move that would allow him to test himself at the highest level of European football.

Vídeos OneFootball

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, both Arsenal and Chelsea are monitoring his situation closely. Crucially, no formal bids have been submitted yet, and Simons is said to favour a move to the Premier League. A deal could be completed for around €65 million plus add-ons.

As of today, as per Ben Jacobs, Chelsea are poised to make an opening bid for Simons.

That development raises an intriguing possibility. Could Arsenal pivot from their long-standing interest in Eze to focus instead on the younger, more versatile Simons?

Xavi Simons (Getty Images)

Eze or Simons: who fits better?

Jacobs believes Arsenal may ultimately have to choose between the two attacking midfielders. While Arsenal’s interest in Eze remains active, a breakthrough depends on whether Crystal Palace are willing to negotiate below his £68 million release clause. That decision is expected imminently.

“There is overlap in their profiles,” Jacobs noted in response to speculation that Simons may be Eze’s alternative. “Let’s see if they advance interest, key to Eze is whether Palace will do business outside the clause. We should have clarity on that next week.”

Both players offer solutions to Arsenal’s well-known issues breaking down deep defensive blocks. Either could provide a creative spark in Mikel Arteta’s system.

Simons, just 22, brings elite dribbling and positional flexibility across attacking roles, having registered 11 goals and eight assists last season. However, he still lacks consistency and may need time to adapt, but the Dutch international is still of interest to Arsenal.

Eze, now 27, is a proven Premier League performer with 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions last term. While he offers more immediate impact, his injury record remains a point of concern.

The decision now lies with Arsenal. Do they opt for raw versatility or ready-made quality?

Your thoughts welcome in the comments Gooners.

Daniel O

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