Chelsea’s pursuit of Xavi Simons is gathering pace, though the move is still far from straightforward. Softfootball understands that the London club have reached a verbal agreement on personal terms with the Dutch midfielder, who is open to joining and is expected to sign a long-term deal running until 2031.
For now, though, the transfer hinges on outgoings, with both Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku lined up for departures before any deal with RB Leipzig can progress.
Talks between the two clubs are described as positive, and RB Leipzig sporting director Oliver Mintzlaff has been in direct contact with Chelsea officials in recent days. Negotiations are set to intensify after Leipzig’s clash with Bayern Munich, when both sides expect to move discussions forward.
German journalist Florian Plettenberg has confirmed Chelsea’s interest on his official X handle, noting that the Blues must first resolve the futures of Jackson and Nkunku.
Jackson has been attracting interest from Aston Villa and Newcastle, while Nkunku is reportedly a target for several European sides, with Leipzig themselves considering a return. Until those exits are confirmed, Chelsea cannot finalize their push for Simons.
Plettenberg wrote:
“Chelsea remain keen on signing Xavi Simons until Deadline Day. RB super boss Oliver Mintzlaff was recently in direct contact with Chelsea regarding Xavi, who is reportedly agreed with #CFC until 2031.
However, Chelsea are still waiting on offloads of Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku. Harvey Elliott remains the number one candidate to replace Xavi.”
The 21-year-old midfielder remains eager to take the next step in his career, and Chelsea view him as a centerpiece of their long-term rebuild. While no formal bid has been lodged yet, the framework of the deal is in place. A final agreement between Chelsea and Leipzig will depend on how quickly the London club can balance their squad and finances through sales.
Leipzig, meanwhile, are already preparing for the possibility of Simons’ departure. Harvey Elliott of Liverpool has emerged as their top candidate to replace him, while Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho is also on their list of potential targets.
Elliott in particular is seen as the most likely fit should Leipzig lose Simons, and discussions over his future could become tied to Chelsea’s pursuit of the Dutchman.
For Chelsea, the clock is ticking. The player wants the move, the contract is ready, and the club is pushing hard, but until Jackson and Nkunku are moved on, Simons will remain in Leipzig colours.
With just days left in the window, all eyes are on Stamford Bridge to see whether the Blues can complete one of the summer’s most complicated transfer sagas.
