Chelsea are stepping up negotiations to land a standout £60m talent, with an official bid anticipated shortly, according to Ben Jacobs.
Thanks to their Club World Cup triumph, the Blues have had financial flexibility this summer and remain active in bolstering their squad. ..Continue Reading
Chelsea are reportedly preparing a formal bid to secure RB Leipzig and Dutch international Xavi Simons.
Manager Enzo Maresca has already reinforced the attack with Jamie Gittens, Joao Pedro, and Liam Delap—spending around £160 million this transfer window.
Teen talents Estevao and Kendry Paez, both 18, have also arrived in London and could play key roles next season, thanks to their rising profiles in South American football.
Still, the club’s leadership is pushing to further strengthen the squad before the deadline, targeting Ajax defender Jorrel Hato and Leipzig playmaker Simons.
Sources suggest Chelsea have reached personal terms with Hato, and a full agreement for the 19-year-old is nearly finalized.
Negotiations for Simons are also moving quickly, with Chelsea encouraged by Leipzig’s openness to a deal. Reports say agent Ali Barat is leading talks, and Leipzig are seeking around €70m (£60.7m), though Chelsea hope to negotiate a lower fee.
The Blues are eager to avoid last season’s injury-driven depth issues, and Simons’ adaptability across attacking roles makes him a valuable target.
Arsenal are monitoring Simons as well, but haven’t made any formal moves, with Eberechi Eze currently topping their wishlist.
Simons, under contract with Leipzig until 2027, is said to be receptive to a Premier League switch.