Man City Weigh Move for Bundesliga Star Amid Chelsea Deal Delays | OneFootball

Manchester City Eye Move for Xavi Simons Amid Chelsea Talks

Manchester City are exploring the possibility of stepping into Chelsea’s negotiations for Xavi Simons, according to talkSPORT. The Dutch midfielder has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Blues ahead of a potential move to Stamford Bridge, but there is still no agreement between Chelsea and RB Leipzig. That uncertainty could give City the opening they need.

At present, City’s interest remains tentative and may hinge on outgoing transfers. Pep Guardiola’s squad is already experiencing a reshuffle, with Jack Grealish loaned to Everton and James McAtee close to joining Nottingham Forest. While City are reluctant to part ways with Savinho, Tottenham’s interest and the player’s stance could change the situation. Simons’ versatility in attack, capable of playing as an attacking midfielder or on either wing, is seen as a major asset.

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Chelsea’s Transfer Stalemate

When the Simons-to-Chelsea story first broke, it appeared that a deal might progress quickly. Yet discussions have stalled. Leipzig value Simons at around £60 million, while Chelsea are aiming to pay just over £50 million. The complexity is heightened by the fact Simons only joined Leipzig permanently from Paris Saint-Germain in January for just over £40 million, with £20 million in bonuses attached. It remains unclear how many of those bonuses have been paid, which will influence the final transfer fee.

There has also been speculation of Christopher Nkunku returning to RB Leipzig in a separate deal. The forward, signed by Chelsea for £52 million after an impressive spell in Germany, has struggled with injuries in England and is now free to leave. However, reports suggest Nkunku is not keen on a return to Leipzig, potentially complicating Chelsea’s efforts.

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Simons’ Talent and Questions Over Attitude

European football expert Kevin Hatchard told talkSPORT’s Trans Europe Express programme that Simons is a player capable of influencing games with flair and intelligence.

“He scores goals, he makes goals, he’s always trying to affect the game. He’s got really silky skills,” Hatchard said. “He has a great awareness of what’s around him. He’s scored some lovely goals. There’s loads to like about him.”

Yet Hatchard also acknowledged ongoing debate in Germany over whether Simons is a team player. “The debate in Germany has been: Is he a team player? Does he have attitude problems? All of that… there are some coaches that speak up for him, but others allude to him needing to be more of a team player,” he explained.

City’s Potential Advantage

Should Chelsea fail to strike a deal, City could step in, particularly if they manage player exits to create squad space. Guardiola is known for appreciating technically gifted players with positional flexibility, and Simons’ skill set could be an ideal fit. With Chelsea caught between financial negotiations and player preferences, City’s opportunity might be growing with each passing day.

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Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Chelsea fans, the idea of losing Simons to Manchester City before he even pulls on a blue shirt would be frustrating. Many supporters would see his technical ability and creativity as exactly what Chelsea’s midfield has been missing. The ongoing delays, coupled with uncertainty around Nkunku’s future, highlight a worrying trend of drawn-out negotiations.

For Manchester City fans, the potential move would be intriguing. While Simons might not be a guaranteed starter in Guardiola’s side, his versatility could provide valuable depth, especially after the departures and loans in attacking positions. Some City fans may be cautious given the reported questions over his attitude, but most would trust Guardiola’s track record in managing and improving talented players.

Financially, City could meet Leipzig’s demands more comfortably than Chelsea, which may prove decisive. If the transfer window’s final weeks see player exits from the Etihad, Simons could become a statement signing that strengthens City’s attacking options while also denying Chelsea a long-term target.