Xavi Simons arrives in London for transfer talks as Tottenham look to beat Chelsea to RB Leipzig star's signing

The Dutch international’s future has taken a dramatic turn as he landed in London for transfer talks, as reported by Bild. The 22-year-old has been released from Leipzig training “until further notice” to negotiate with clubs, with Tottenham now leading the chase. Spurs see Simons as a priority signing after James Maddison’s long-term injury, while Chelsea, once considered favourites, have cooled their interest in favour of pursuing Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez. Leipzig are holding out for around €70 million (£59m/$76m), including bonuses, with negotiations over financial terms expected to accelerate before the September deadline.

Tottenham are in need of a No.10 since Maddison’s injury and have made a late move for the ex-Paris Saint-Germain player. For Chelsea, shifting targets from Simons to Lopez signals a recalibration in strategy as they look to add technical midfield quality under Enzo Maresca. 

Simons' move, following Benjamin Sesko’s move to Manchester United, would mark a second high-profile exit in one summer for Leipzig, testing the club’s ability to stay competitive in both the Bundesliga and Champions League.

Simons, who has a contract until 2027, has made clear his desire to leave this summer. Meanwhile, Spurs have already opened exploratory talks with the player’s entourage, and salary demands are believed to be quite high, underlining Simons’ confidence in his growing value. His agent, Ali Barat, has been instrumental in positioning him for a Premier League move, previously leaning towards Chelsea. Now, with the Blues pursuing alternatives, Spurs appear to have a free run. However, nothing is finalised yet and Tottenham have not tabled an official bid.

Simons' swift trip to London also highlights the urgency behind the move, with the midfielder keen to seal a transfer before losing valuable time at the start of the 2025-26 campaign.